Method and system for hand washing compliance

ABSTRACT

A method and system for user hand washing compliance is described. An exemplary embodiment of the method may comprise the steps of receiving at an entry-sensor, a first-wireless-transmission from a user-transmitter as a user enters a hand-washing-compliance-area; receiving, from the entry-sensor, a second-wireless-transmission by a temporary-controller or by at least one server, the second-wireless-transmission including an indicator that a specific user has entered the hand-washing-compliance-area; receiving a start-hand-washing-command from the user by the temporary controller or by the at least one server; receiving, by the temporary controller or by the at least one server, a first-recording by a camera of the user wetting hands under water running from the washer during the defined-first-duration; receiving, by the temporary controller or by the at least one server a second-recording by the camera of the user receiving soap from the soap-dispenser; receiving, by the temporary controller or by the at least one server, a third-recording by the camera of the user washing and receiving, by the temporary controller or by the at least one server, transmission of a hand-washing-cycle-completion-signal resulting in a completion-feedback-signal being sent back to the user; and logging, by the temporary controller or by the at least one server, at least one log entry pertaining to a given user&#39;s interactions with the method.

REFERENCE TO RELATED PATENT APPLICATIONS

The present application claims priority to U.S. patent application Ser.No. 15/579,003 filed on Dec. 1, 2017 which claims priority to PCTApplication No. PCT/US16/26711, filed on Apr. 8, 2016 which claims thebenefit of Chinese Application No. CN 2015/10173233.6 filed Apr. 13,2015, all of which are herein incorporated by reference in theirentirety.

STATEMENT REGARDING FEDERAL SPONSORSHIP

No part of this invention was a result of any federally sponsoredresearch.

TECHNICAL FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates in general to user hand washing compliancewith proper hand washing techniques and more specifically to methodsand/or systems for active monitoring and validation to ensure actualuser compliance with proper hand washing techniques.

COPYRIGHT AND TRADEMARK NOTICE

A portion of the disclosure of this patent application may containmaterial that is subject to copyright protection. The owner has noobjection to the facsimile reproduction by anyone of the patent documentor the patent disclosure, as it appears in the Patent and TrademarkOffice patent file or records, but otherwise reserves all copyrightswhatsoever.

Certain marks referenced herein may be common law or registeredtrademarks of third parties affiliated or unaffiliated with theapplicant or the assignee. Use of these marks is by way of example andshould not be construed as descriptive or to limit the scope of thisinvention to material associated only with such marks.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Obviously proper hand washing practices are critical in many industries.Such industries include food preparation (including processing andmanufacturing), food cooking and serving (e.g. restaurants andcatering), medical treatment services, medical device and pharmaceuticalproduction and manufacturing, in various laboratory research and testingenvironments where minimizing various contaminants may be critical, andthe like. Proper hand washing is the primary means by which infection isnot spread and that food is preserved from contamination. Proper handwashing also plays an important role in maintaining purity ofpharmaceuticals and medical devices.

Generally, it has fallen to employers in these various industries toprovide proper training to their employees and independent contractorswith respect to proper hand washing techniques, which may vary fromindustry to industry and from employer to employer. But compliance withproper hand washing training has largely been left to employee andindependent contractor trust alone, such as the employee or independentcontractor completing a log of hand washing activities. One reason forthe art to rely primarily upon trust has been privacy concerns of theuser, since many hand washing facilities are located within restroomsand/or bathrooms.

It may be desirable to move beyond a reliance on just trust alone and tonot only encourage and properly train users, but also to activelymonitor and/or validate hand washing to ensure actual compliance withproper hand washing techniques. Such active monitoring and/or validationof hand washing to ensure actual compliance may provide a benefit toentities (e.g. employers) who may be responsible for a user's handwashing compliance to mitigate against liability arising fromnon-compliance and/or to improve hygiene and health care of activitieswhich typically follow and flow from hand washing.

There is a need in the art for methods and system which permit activemonitoring and validation of hand washing to ensure compliance withrequired hand washing techniques, but that do so by maintainingappropriate privacy of the user.

It is to these ends that the present invention has been developed.

BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

To minimize the limitations in the prior art, and to minimize otherlimitations that will be apparent upon reading and understanding thepresent specification, the present invention describes a method and asystem for user hand washing compliance.

For example, an exemplary embodiment of the method may comprise thesteps of: receiving a request from the user to enter ahand-washing-compliance-area, wherein the request is received by anentry-sensor; the entry-sensor may cause initiation of ahandwashing-cycle log entry; releasing water from a washer forpre-rinsing hands of the user; releasing soap from a soap-dispenser forsoaping the hands of the user; releasing water from the washer to rinsethe soaped hands of the user; and providing a means-to-dry-hands from ahand-dryer for drying the hands of the user. The user may initiate eachstep with the user transmitter based on physical proximity and/or withappropriate hand-gestures before a gesture recognition camera (camera).For example, the user may place the user-transmitter within a sufficientdistance of the entry-sensor, such that the entry-sensor receives afirst-wireless transmission from the user-transmitter. Upon the userinitiating each step, the camera may record each step. And at least oneserver (and/or a temporary-controller) may receive said recordings andvalidate each step as compliant or non-compliant.

Alternatively, in another exemplary embodiment, the camera may not makeany recordings and validation of each phase of a given hand washingcycle may proceed by camera presenting captured object images (e.g. oflimbs, hands, and digits) to a pattern recognition algorithm. Thepattern recognition algorithm may then compare the captured objectimages to determine compliance or non-compliance with each phase of thegiven hand washing cycle.

It is an objective of the present invention to provide methods andsystem which may actively monitor, validate (confirm) and otherwiseensure that the user has engaged in proper hand washing techniques.

It is another objective of the present invention to provide methodsand/or systems which may function without an undue intrusion of privacy.

It is another objective of the present invention to provide methodsand/or systems which may function without undue intrusion into a dailywork routine of the user.

It is another objective of the present invention to provide the methodsand/or systems in a manner which is largely automated, relying uponwireless communication technologies, proximity sensing, and gesturerecognition. Such gesture recognition capability may result of use ofspecialized camera technology.

It is another objective of the present invention to provide the methodsand system which may also detect if proper water temperature may havebeen used in the hand washing

It is yet another objective of the present invention to provide at leasta semipermanent record of any given user's hand washing for periodicuser reviews and other quality control auditing needs.

These and other advantages and features of the present invention aredescribed herein with specificity so as to make the present inventionunderstandable to one of ordinary skill in the art, both with respect tohow to practice the present invention and how to make the presentinvention.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWINGS

Elements in the figures have not necessarily been drawn to scale inorder to enhance their clarity and improve understanding of thesevarious elements and embodiments of the invention. Furthermore, elementsthat are known to be common and well understood to those in the industryare not depicted in order to provide a clear view of the variousembodiments of the invention.

A FIG. 1 series which may comprise FIG. 1(a) through FIG. 1(h) maydepict exemplary phases and steps of a method for user hand washingcompliance.

FIG. 1(a) may depict an exemplary embodiment of a user entering or aboutto enter a hand-washing-compliance-area, wherein a user-transmitterphysically associated with the user may be in sufficient proximity forthe user-transmitter to transmit a first-wireless transmission to anentry-sensor, wherein the entry-sensor may be located at an entrance tothe hand-washing-compliance-area.

FIG. 1(b) may depict an exemplary embodiment of a user about to enterthe handwashing-compliance-area, wherein the entry-sensor here may use athreshold sensor to detect the user entering thehand-washing-compliance-area, wherein the entry-sensor may be located atan entrance to the hand-washing-compliance-area.

FIG. 1(c) may depict an exemplary embodiment of the user displaying astart-handwashing-command that may be viewed (and sometimes recorded) bya camera and received by a temporary-controller or by at least oneserver.

FIG. 1(d) may depict an exemplary embodiment of a pre-rinse phase,wherein the user wets hands beneath a washer, wherein this conduct maybe viewed (and sometimes recorded) by the camera and wherein thisconduct data may be validated as an appropriate prerinse phase.

FIG. 1(e) may depict an exemplary embodiment of a soaping (i.e.lathering) phase wherein the user receives soap that may be dispensedfrom a soap-dispenser, wherein this conduct data may be viewed (andsometimes recorded) by the camera and wherein this conduct data may bevalidated as an appropriate soaping phase.

FIG. 1(f) may depict an exemplary embodiment a rinse (washing) phase,wherein the user rinses hands of soap from beneath the washer, whereinthis conduct data may be viewed (and sometimes recorded) by the cameraand wherein this conduct data may be validated as an appropriate rinsephase.

FIG. 1(g) may depict an exemplary embodiment of a drying phase, whereinthe user dries hands of water and/or moisture from a hand-dryer, whereinthis conduct data may be viewed (and sometimes recorded) by the cameraand wherein this conduct data may be validated as an appropriate dryingphase.

FIG. 1(h) may depict an exemplary embodiment of the user receivingcompletion feedback-signal which may notify the user that the givenhand-washing-cycle may have terminated and/or that the givenhand-washing-cycle may have terminated successfully, with the user incompliance.

FIG. 2 may depict an exemplary embodiment of a system for user handwashing compliance, wherein some components of such a system may bedepicted, with some potential communication relationships of thesesystem components.

FIG. 2(a) may depict an exemplary embodiment of how the user-transmittermay be used to determine the user's location within a work siteenvironment.

FIG. 3 may depict exemplary subcomponents of at least one server in ablock diagram format. This block diagram may also depict how thesubcomponents of a temporary controller may be structured.

FIG. 4 may depict an exemplary embodiment of subcomponents of the usertransmitter in a block diagram format.

FIG. 4(a) may depict an exemplary embodiment of subcomponents of theuser transmitter in an identification-card embodiment.

FIG. 5 may depict an exemplary embodiment of subcomponents of a camera.

REFERENCE NUMERAL SCHEDULE

101 first-wireless-transmission 101

102 user-data 102

103 unique-user-ID 103

106 second-wireless-transmission 106

107 User-hand-washing-log 107

108 hand-washing-cycle 108

110 start-hand-washing-command 110

111 first-recording 111

112 second-recording 112

113 third-recording 113

114 fourth-recording 114

155 fifth-recording 155

115 hand-gestures 115

116 defined-hand-gestures 116

117 defined-pre-rinse-gestures 117

118 defined-soaping-gestures 118

119 defined-washing-gestures 119

120 defined-drying-gestures 120

121 defined-first-duration 121

122 defined-second-duration 122

123 defined-third-duration 123

124 defined-fourth-duration 124

125 defined-fifth-duration 125

126 first-error-message 126

127 second-error-message 127

128 third-error-message 128

129 fourth-error-message 129

130 fifth-error-message 130

160 sixth-error-message 160

131 first-turn-on-signal 131

132 second-turn-on-signal 132

145 third-turn-on-signal 145

135 third-wireless-transmission 135

140 fourth-wireless-transmission 140

150 fifth-wireless-transmission 150

165 hand-washing-cycle-completion-signal 165

170 completion-feedback-signal 170

175 validate-entire-cycle-command 175

176 final-overall-validation-message 176

177 operator-review-notification 177

180 feedback-signal 180

200 system 200

201 user-transmitter 201

202 wrist-band 202

203 identification-card 203

404 wireless-transmitter 404

405 wireless-receiver 405

406 user-memory 406

407 optional-function-chip 407

409 optional-processor 409

410 battery 410

206 entry-sensor 206

210 washer 210

211 means for dispensing water 211

215 camera 215

221 soap-dispenser 221

226 hand-dryer 226

231 at least one server 231

332 processor 332

333 memory 333

334 network-adapter 334

335 server-power-source 335

240 temporary-controller 240

250 wireless-router 250

260 operator-computing-device 260

270 user-computing-device 270

280 hand-washing-compliance-area 280

281 entrance 281

290 feedback-means 290

801 WAN 801

900 operator 900

950 user 950

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

Methods and systems for user hand washing compliance are described anddisclosed. Overall, these methods and systems may rely upon (1) wirelesscommunications among the various components of the systems; and (2) upona camera which may be configured for gesture recognition, includingthermal imaging, such that gestures typical of various phases of handwashing may be monitored and/or validated for compliance. In someembodiments, this gesture recognition capability of the camera may alsobe used to initiate various phases of hand washing. In some embodiments,predominantly wireless communications among the various components ofthe system may be used to initiate various phases of hand washing, whichmay also involve activation of communications based on physicalproximity of the user and/or of a user-transmitter with the variouscomponents. In some embodiments, both the camera and the wirelesscommunications among the various components of the system may be used toinitiate various phases of hand washing. In some embodiments, timing ofa given hand washing phase may also be tracked and timing may be used toprogress from one phase to another.

Washing of the hands may comprise the following main phases: (1)pre-rinsing the hands with water to wet the hands, i.e. a pre-rinsephase; (2) soaping (i.e. lathering) the hands with a soap (i.e.detergent or cleaner), i.e. a soaping phase; (3) washing and rinsing thesoaped hands with water to remove the soap, i.e. a rinsing phase; and(4) drying the wet hands, i.e. a drying phase. Depending uponconstraints and objectives, additional phases and steps within a givenphase may be added or removed. For example, if conserving water may bedeemed important, then the pre-rinse phase may be removed or shortened.For example, if washing hands may be for medical purposes, thenantibacterial soaps may be used; and/or it may be desirable to keepfingertips up above the rest of the hand and forearm so as to encourageany contamination to run away from the fingers; and/or to use equipmentthat does not require touching the hands and fingers to any controls forturning water on or off and/or for dispensing the soap.

It may be desirable to encourage, properly train, monitor, ensure,and/or validate such hand washing phases being performed by a user, suchthat an entity who may be responsible for the user's hand washingcompliance may mitigate liability arising from noncompliance and/or toimprove hygiene and health care of activities which typically followhand washing. Obviously proper hand washing may be critical on foodpreparation, food services, medical treatment, and medical and lifescience research industries.

An exemplary embodiment of the method may comprise the steps of:receiving a request from the user to enter ahand-washing-compliance-area, wherein the request is received by anentry-sensor; the entry-sensor may cause initiation of ahand-washing-cycle log entry; releasing water from a washer forpre-rinsing hands of the user; releasing soap from a soap-dispenser forsoaping the hands of the user; releasing water from the washer to rinsethe soaped hands of the user; and providing a means-to-dry-hands from ahand-dryer for drying the hands of the user. The user may initiate eachstep with the user-transmitter based on physical proximity and/or withappropriate hand-gestures before a gesture-recognition-camera (camera).

For example, the user may place the user-transmitter within a sufficientdistance of the entry-sensor, such that the entry-sensor receives afirst-wireless-transmission from the user-transmitter. Upon the userinitiating each step, the gesture-recognition-camera records each step.And at least one server (and/or a temporary-controller) may receive saidrecordings and validate each step as compliant or non-compliant.

In some embodiments, the user initiating each step may occur by the usermaking appropriate hand-gestures at appropriate locations. Suchinitiation may by be facilitated by the camera both recognizing anappropriate hand-gesture (e.g. a defined-pre-rinse-gestures, adefined-soaping-gestures, a defined-washing-gestures, adefined-hand-gestures, and/or a defined-drying-gestures) and by thecamera recognizing that the appropriate hand-gesture may be occurring inan appropriate three dimensional location. Thegesture-recognition-camera may be configured to recognize stereoscopicevents.

For example, and without limiting the scope of the present invention,the user making defined-washing-gestures below a faucet of the washer,may be recorded by the camera as both an appropriate hand-gesture and asoccurring in a proper three dimensional location, such that the cameracauses a signal to be sent to the washer to turn on the running ofwater. Likewise, when the user removes hands from this appropriatethree-dimensional location, the camera may recognize this and causeanother signal to be sent to the washer such that the water is turnedoff.

For example, and without limiting the scope of the present invention,the user making defined-soaping-gestures below the soap-dispenser, maybe recorded by the camera as both an appropriate hand-gesture and asoccurring in a recognized three dimensional location, such that cameracauses a signal to be sent to the soap-dispenser to dispense soap.

Depending upon the embodiment, soap may be dispensed continuously for adefined time period or one or more metered bursts of soap dispensing maybe used. Likewise, when the user removes hands from this appropriatethree-dimensional location, the camera may recognize this and causeanother signal to be sent to the soap-dispenser such that soap may nolonger be dispensed.

For example, and without limiting the scope of the present invention,the user making defined-drying-gestures within a proximity ofhand-dryer, may be recorded by the camera as both an appropriatehand-gesture and as occurring in a recognized three dimensionallocation, such that camera causes a signal to be sent to the hand-dryerto either blow air or to provide a towel. Likewise, when the userremoves hands from this appropriate three-dimensional location, thecamera may recognize this and cause another signal to be sent to thehand-dryer such that air blowing ceases or no more towels may beprovided.

In other embodiments, in the above three examples, the signals to startand stop the washer, the soap-dispenser, and the hand-dryer may emanatefrom the at least one server and/or the temporary-controller after theat least one server and/or the temporary-controller validates theappropriate recording received from the camera. In other exemplaryembodiments, no image recordings may be taken by the camera, and insteadvalidation may occur in near real-time by comparing observed (viewed)images with a pattern recognition algorithm. Note, “near” here maydenote that it may take some processing time to compute validation ofviewed gestures.

In the following discussion that addresses a number of embodiments andapplications of the present invention, reference is made to theaccompanying drawings that form a part thereof, where depictions aremade, by way of illustration, of specific embodiments in which theinvention may be practiced. It is to be understood that otherembodiments may be utilized and changes may be made without departingfrom the scope of the invention.

FIG. 1 series may comprise FIG. 1(a) through FIG. 1(g), wherein eachsuch FIG. may depict exemplary phases of a method 100 for user handwashing compliance. In exemplary embodiments, method 100 may compriseseven main phases: (1) an entry phase; (2) a start hand-washing-cyclephase; (3) a pre-rinse phase; (4) a soaping (i.e. lathering) phase; (5)a rinse phase; (6) a drying phase; and (7) a completion phase. Eachphase may comprise a plurality of various steps. Not all embodiments mayinclude each of these seven phases. For example, and without limitingthe scope of the present invention, the pre-rinse phase may be omitted(or shortened) where conservation of water may be deemed material. Forexample, and without limiting the scope of the present invention, thedrying phase may be omitted where such a phase may not be part of a handwashing compliance policy or procedure or for budget concerns.

FIG. 1(a) may depict an exemplary embodiment of a user 950 entering orabout to enter a hand-washing-compliance-area 280. A user-transmitter201 may be physically associated with user 950 (e.g. on a lanyard arounduser's 950 neck, on a wrist of user 950, or within a pocket of user950). When user-transmitter 201 may be in sufficient proximity to anentry-sensor 206, then user-transmitter 201 may transmit afirst-wireless-transmission 101 to entry-sensor 206. Entry-sensor 206may be located at an entrance 281 to hand-washing-compliance-area 280.Entrance 281 may be an access-point for user 950 to gain entry tohandwashing-compliance-area 280.

In some embodiments, first-wireless-transmission 101 may be a requestfrom user 950 to enter hand-washing-compliance-area 280. In someembodiments, first-wireless-transmission 101 may comprise transmitting aunique-user-ID 103 associated with that particular user 950. In someembodiments, user-transmitter 201 may non-transitorily store user data102. User-data 102 may be wirelessly transmitted infirst-wireless-transmission 101. In some embodiments, user-data 102 maybe wirelessly transmitted from any wireless transmission, not justfirst-wireless-transmission 101, emanating from user-transmitter 201. Insome embodiments, the user-data 102 may comprise unique-user-ID 103.Unique-user-ID 103 may be associated with a particular user 950. In someembodiments, the user-data 102 may comprise a name of the user and/or ajob title of the user.

In some embodiments, user-transmitter 201 may be housed within and/ormay be in integral physical contact with a wrist band 202 (see e.g.,FIG. 1(a) and FIG. 2), an identification card (badge) 203 (see e.g.,FIG. 2(a) and FIG. 4(a)), a keychain, and/or a similar device. Forexample, and without limiting the scope of the present invention,user-transmitter 201 may be a device which transmits at least one typeof wireless signal. Such a user-transmitter 201 may be housed withinbracelet (i.e. wrist band) 202 or within identification card 203. Suchan identification card 203 may be worn around the user's neck on alanyard or kept within a pocket of user 950. Identification card 203 mayvisually display a photograph, name, and job title of user 950, as wellas other information deemed important by an entity or employer. Forexample, and without limiting the scope of the present invention,user-transmitter 201 may function as a punch card for a time clock, i.e.user-transmitter 201 may be used to track employee time, such as whenthe employee may be working, may be on break and/or lunch, and the like.

In some embodiments, user-transmitter 201 may comprise awireless-transmitter 404. In some embodiments, wireless-transmitter 404may be configured for wireless-transmission using a wirelesscommunication protocol selected from one or more of the groupcomprising: Bluetooth®, WiFi, radio frequency ID (RFID), near fieldcommunication (NFC), and the like.

In some embodiments, user-transmitter 201 (e.g. comprisingwireless-transmitter 404) may be configured for wireless transmissionusing either an active wireless communication protocol or a passivewireless communication protocol. In exemplary embodiments,user-transmitter 201 may be configured to transmit wireless signals viaa passive wireless technology such as RFID or NFC. In such embodiments,user-transmitter 201 may derive power to transmit from another device(e.g. from entry-sensor 206) that may in sufficient proximity touser-transmitter 201. Sufficient proximity may vary according to passivewireless communication technology employed (NFC or RFID) and where user950 may be storing user-transmitter 201 (e.g. within a pocket, around awrist, or on a lanyard). For example, and without limiting the scope ofthe present invention, in some embodiments the sufficient proximitybetween user-transmitter 201 and entry-sensor 206 may be within 10centimeters (cm). See e.g., FIG. 1(a), where the distance in FIG. 1(a)may be within 10 centimeters (cm).

In some exemplary embodiments, where user-transmitter 201 may beconfigured for active wireless communication, user-transmitter 201 maybe tracked via wireless triangulation, using a plurality of wirelessreceiving sensors located at various positions around the work siteenvironment, including a plurality of such sensors that may be locatedwithin handwashing-compliance-area 280. Such a plurality of sensors mayenable tracking of user-transmitter 201 from room to room within thework site environment and within hand-washing-compliance-area 280 and innear real-time. Note, “near” here may denote that it may take someprocessing time to commute locations via triangulation. Such receivingwireless sensors may wireless report (communicate) directly towireless-router 250 and/or indirectly to at least one server 231 and/orto temporary-controller 240. Temporary-controller 240 and/or at leastone server 231 may then communicate such dynamic location information ofuser-transmitter 201 to operator computing-device 260. Then such dynamiclocation may be visually displayed over a map of the work siteenvironment on an operator-graphical-user-interface (operator-GUI).

Additionally, in some embodiments, user-transmitter 201 may compriseoptional-function-chip 407, which may comprise a heartbeat sensor,accelerometer, and/or a vibration detector, which additional functionsmay add redundancy to help in determining if user 950 may be wearinguser-transmitter 201 as may be required. See e.g., FIG. 2(a) (note thetracking sensors may be not be depicted in FIG. 2(a)). In activeembodiments, user-transmitter 201 may have its own power source, such asa battery 410 (see e.g., FIG. 4), which may be rechargeable.

In some embodiments, user-transmitter 201 may comprise awireless-receiver 405. In some embodiments, wireless-receiver 405 may beconfigured for receiving wireless transmissions using one or morewireless communication protocols selected from the group comprising:Bluetooth®, WiFi, RFID, NFC, and the like. In some embodiments,wireless-receiver 405 may be configured for receiving wirelesstransmissions from one or more of at least one server 231, atemporary-controller 240, entry-sensor 206, a washer 210, a camera 215,a soap-dispenser 221, a hand-dryer 226, a wireless-router 250, anoperator-computing device 260, a user-computing-device 270, and thelike. In some embodiments, wireless-transmitter 404 andwireless-receiver 405 may share the same hardware as an antennaconfigured for various wireless communications, see e.g., FIG. 4.

In some embodiments, user-transmitter 201 may comprise a heartbeatsensor 407. Such heartbeat detection may permit method 100 and/or system200 to determine if user 950 may be wearing user-transmitter 201. Insome embodiments, heartbeat sensor 407 may also comprise vibrationdetection and/or motion detection via an accelerometer chip. Suchvibration detection (motion detection) may aid in tracking user 950motion and movement. See e.g., FIG. 2(a). The heartbeat sensor 407and/or the vibration detector 407 may aid method 100 and/or system 200in determining if user 950 may be currently wearing user-transmitter201. Such information may be used to determine if that particular user950 may have been trying to cheat (whether intentionally orunintentionally) method 100 and/or system 200 by not wearinguser-transmitter 201 when required to do so (e.g. when inhand-washing-compliance-area 280).

In some embodiments, user-transmitter 201 may comprise a means forproviding feedback-signal 180 and/or completion-feedback-signal 170. Insome embodiments, the means for providing feedback-signal 180 and/orcompletion-feedback-signal 170 may comprise feedback-means 290. Feedbackmeans 290 may comprise an audible signal generator (e.g. a buzzer and/orbeeper, speaker, etc.) and/or a visual signal generator (e.g. at leastone LED or LEDs of different colors). For example, and without limitingthe scope of the present invention, user-transmitter 201 may display alit red LED, which may flash or remain constantly on, when user 950 doesnot properly conduct hand washing. Such a red LED may indicate to othersthat this particular user 950 did no properly conduct hand washing. Insome embodiments, feedback-means 290, for providing feedback-signal 180and/or completion-feedback-signal 170 may comprise a vibrator, such thatuser 950 may feel the vibrations. Such vibrations may operate a reminderto user 950 to adhere to proper hand washing practices when inhandwashing-compliance-area 280.

In some embodiments, wireless-transmitter 201 may also be configured forwired communications with an operator-computing-device and/or with auser-computing device. Such wire communication may be via USB (universalserial bus) connections and cables, mini-USB connections and cables, andsimilar charging and/or data communication cables. Such wiredcommunication may facilitate programming and/or updating user-memory 406with user-data 102, such as unique-user-ID 103. Such wired communicationmay facilitate charging of batteries of user-transmitter 201 inembodiments where user-transmitter 201 may have its own power source.

In some embodiments, entry-sensor 206 may comprise a sensor-receiver, asensor-transmitter, a sensor-power-source, and a feedback-means 290 forproviding feedback signal 180 and/or completion-feedback-signal 170. Thesensor-receiver may be configured to receive first-wireless-transmission101. In some embodiments, the sensor-receiver may be configured toreceive wireless transmission from at least one server 231,temporary-controller 240, and/or operator-computing-device 260. Thesensor-transmitter may be configured to wirelessly transmit asecond-wireless-transmission 106. The sensor-power-source may beconfigured to provide electrical power to the sensor-receiver and to thesensor-transmitter.

In some embodiments, the feedback-means 290 for providingfeedback-signal 180 and/or completion-feedback-signal 170 may comprisean audible signal generator (e.g. a buzzer and/or beeper, speaker, etc.)and/or a visual signal generator (e.g. at least one LED or LEDs ofdifferent colors). This feedback-means 290 for providing feedback-signal180 and/or completion-feedback-signal 170 may also be a component ofother components of system that method 100 may use as disclosed herein.In some embodiments (e.g. passive user-transmitter 201), entry-sensor206 (e.g. via the sensor-power-source and the sensor-transmitter) may beconfigured to wirelessly provide power to user-transmitter 201, when theuser-transmitter 201 may be within sufficient proximity fromentry-sensor 206. (e.g. within 10 cm in some embodiments).

In some embodiments, the sensor-transmitter may be configured forwireless transmission using a wireless communication protocol selectedfrom one or more of the group comprising: Bluetooth®, WiFi, RFID, NFC,and the like. In some embodiments, the sensor-receiver may be configuredfor receiving wireless transmissions using a wireless communicationprotocol selected from one or more of the group comprising: Bluetooth®,WiFi, RFID, NFC, and the like.

In some embodiments, entry-sensor 206 may be configured to controlaccess to hand-washing-compliance-area 280 by unlocking an entry doorpermitting access to hand-washing-compliance-area 280. In suchembodiments, entry-sensor 206 may be in communication (e.g. wired orwireless) with an electronic locking means. In such embodiments, whenuser-transmitter 201 may be brought sufficiently close to entry-sensor206, then entry-sensor 206 upon receiving first-wireless-transmission101 from user-transmitter 201, entry-sensor 206 may then send a signalto the electronic locking means unlocking the door tohand-washing-compliance-area 280 so that user 950 may then enter.

In some embodiments, entry-sensor 206 may comprise a threshold sensor.See e.g., FIG. 1(b). The threshold sensor may be a motion sensor and/ora sensor configured to detect a break in an emitted and reflected beam.Such a threshold sensor may be mounted in a doorway (entry way) tohand-washing-compliance-area 280. In some embodiments, such a thresholdsensor may be used in place of detecting and receivingfirst-wireless-transmission 101 from user-transmitter 201. Or in someembodiments, such a threshold sensor may be used in conjunction withdetecting and receiving first-wireless-transmission 101 fromuser-transmitter 201, i.e. as a source of redundancy and verification ofdetecting and receiving first-wireless-transmission 101 fromuser-transmitter 201.

In some embodiments, entry-sensor 206 receipt offirst-wireless-transmission 101 from user-transmitter 201 may initiatetransmission of second-wireless-transmission 106. See e.g., FIG. 1(a).Second-wireless-transmission 106 may comprise information logginginitiation of a hand-washing-cycle 108 in a user-hand-washing-log 107.Hand-washing-cycle 108 may comprise at least one log entry pertaining toa given user's 950 interactions with method 100 and/or system 200.User-hand-washing-log 107 may be a database maintained on memory 333 incommunication with the at least one server 231. Each hand-washing-cycle108 may comprise a plurality of log entries pertaining to a given user's950 interactions with method 100 and/or system 200.User-hand-washing-log 107 may comprise a plurality of hand-washing-cycle108 entries.

In some embodiments, second-wireless-transmission 106 may be directed toat least one server 231, or temporarily to temporary-controller 240.Note, this wireless communication is not depicted in FIG. 1(a) as atleast one server 231 and temporarily to temporary-controller 240 are notdepicted in FIG. 1(a); however, this communication relationship is shownin FIG. 2. In some embodiments, second-wireless-transmission 106 maycomprise information logging initiation of hand-washing-cycle 108. Thisinformation of second-wireless-transmission 106 may comprise: (1)information contained within first-wireless-transmission 101 (e.g.unique-user-ID 103, user's name, and/or user's job title); (2) a date ofreceiving first-wireless-transmission 101; and (3) a time of receivingfirst-wireless-transmission 101. The information contained withinsecond-wireless-transmission 106 may constitute a first log entry in anygiven hand-washing-cycle 108.

In some embodiments, hand-washing-compliance-area 280 may be an areawherein the physical area may bound a three-dimensional space. Thisthree-dimensional space may comprise entry-sensor 206, washer 210,camera 215, soap-dispenser 221, and in some embodiments, hand-dryer 226.In some embodiments, wireless router 250 may also be located within thisthree-dimensional space. In some embodiments, temporary-controller 240may also be located within this three-dimensional space. In someembodiments, hand-washing-compliance-area 280 may be a restroom, abathroom, a washroom, and the like. See e.g., the FIG. 1 series offigures.

FIG. 1(c) may depict an exemplary embodiment of user 950 displaying astart-hand-washing-command 110 that may be recorded by camera 215 (oroptionally recorded by camera 215) and received by temporary-controller240 or by at least one server 231.

In some embodiments, temporary-controller 240 and/or at least one server231 receipt of second-wireless-transmission 106 may trigger severalresults. In some embodiments, these results may includetemporary-controller 240 and/or at least one server 231 sending signalsto be received by camera 215, washer 210, soap-dispenser, and/orhand-dryer 226, such that these components may then power up and/orenter a status ready for interaction with user 950. In some embodiments,these results may include initiation of the pre-rinse phase, followed bythe soaping phase, followed by the rinse phase, followed by the dryingphase, and then followed by the completion phase, wherein each phase,including transition to the next phase may be controlled by varioustimers applicable to each phase and each transition.

In some embodiments, user 950 may initiate a start to any particularphase by user 950 conduct (e.g. gesturing) as recorded by camera 215. Insome embodiments, start-hand-washing-command 110 may be user 950 conductobserved (or optionally recorded) by camera 215. See e.g., FIG. 1(c),where user 950 may be displaying start-hand-washing-command 110 asobserved by camera 215. In this example, start-hand-washing-command 110may be user 950 holding both hands up with palms facing and visible tocamera 215. Of course, in other embodiments, otherstart-hand-washing-command 110 may be utilized.

In some embodiments, camera 215 may be a gesture-recognition-camera. Insome embodiments, camera 215 may be configured to recognize stereoscopicevents (i.e. a three-dimensional location of an event before camera215). In some embodiments, camera 215 may be configured to view and/orrecord thermal images, i.e. camera 215 may also be an IR (infrared)camera. In some embodiments, camera 215 may be agesture-recognition-camera, a thermal imaging camera, and configured todetect stereoscopic events within camera's 215 field of view.

In some embodiments, camera 215 may be a stereoscopic camera capable ofseeing (observing and/or viewing) in 3D (three dimensions). See e.g.,FIG. 5 regarding general camera 215 features. That is, camera 215 may beable to calculate depth and volume of various objects within camera 215field of view. Camera 215 may comprise a light projector (emitter) andlight receiving sensor (receiver). In some embodiments, the light may belaser light. In further embodiments, the laser light may be infrared(IR) laser light. In such embodiments, the light projector may beprojecting IR laser light into a field of view of camera 215. Suchprojected laser light may reflect off of various objects within thefield of view and may then be received by the light receiver (sensor).The light receiver may comprise a monochrome CMOS (complimentarymetal-oxide semiconductor) sensor for detecting the reflected IR laserlight. By analyzing the received reflected IR laser light and a time offlight for how long it may take the reflected IR laser light to bereceived by the light receiver (sensor), the software may generate anaccurate and precise 3D map of the field of view. Such time of flight 3Ddepth tracking and mapping technology may be tuned for operation atdistances of 1.5 meters or less from the objects being measured tocamera 215. Continual projections of such IR laser light and continualreceipt of reflected IR laser light may enable camera 215 to see depthand near real-time changes (i.e. movement) in the field of view.Additionally, use of IR light may allow such 3D mapping and motiontracking to operate with or without a presence of visible light.

In some embodiments, camera 215 may comprise digital-optics (i.e.lenses) which may recognize facial features, appendage (limb) anatomy,and hand and finger (digit) anatomy. For example, and without limitingthe scope of the present invention, camera's 215 digital-optics mayrecognize numerous shapes and/or length (size) of shapes. For example,camera's 215 digital-optics may recognize how many limbs and/or handsand/or digits may be within the field of view. For example, camera's 215digital-optics may be able to determine a length of an arm within thefield of view. In some embodiments, the digital-optics may comprisedigital lenses, such as RBG (red blue green) video capability, as wellas the light projector and light receiver (sensor). Camera's 215digital-optics may recognize if user 950 may be missing fingers, thumbs,hands, or limbs. Camera's 215 digital-optics may recognize thumbs fromfingers and fingers from thumbs, and where each finger and thumb shouldbe in relation to each hand.

With respect to user 950 hands, Camera's 215 digital-optics mayrecognize not only the number of hands (one, two, or none), but may alsobe able to differentiate a palm side (palmar) of the hands from anopposing dorsal side of the hands.

With respect to user 950 hands, camera's 215 digital-optics mayrecognize if the palms of two hands are touching and rubbing againsteach other. Camera's 215 digital-optics may recognize where the handsmay be located in 3D space. Camera's 215 digital-optics may be able todifferentiate between palms in physical contact and rubbing; from twodorsal sides of the hands in physical contact and rubbing.

In an exemplary embodiment, camera 215 is not comparing digital 2D (twodimensional) images of hands for an output decision. Rather, method 100and/or system 200 may be watching for, in 3D, whether palms may becoming together, to make a decision on proper or improper hand washing.Method 100, via the software, may be comparing viewed shapes and 3Dpositions of such viewed shapes against a 3D model of an ideal set ofshapes and positions of the pattern recognition algorithm.

In exemplary embodiments, camera 215 may also comprise an infrared (IR)camera or other equivalent thermal sensor. In such embodiments,observing heat emissions from running water and/or from the surface ofhands may aid in determining if proper hand washing has occurred or maybe occurring. With IR camera (infrared) functionality proper watertemperature use may be verified.

In some embodiments, observed temperature ranges may be assigneddifferent colors for display purposes. For example, and without limitingthe scope of the present invention, hot may be assigned to red, warmassigned may be assigned to yellow, and cold may be assigned to blue.With IR camera functionality, verifying actual use of water duringpre-rinse and/or during washing may be made easier and more reliablebecause hot water (but not dangerously hot) over warm hands may providea useful color contrast; and/or cold water over warm hands may alsoprovide a useful color contrast as picked up by the IR camera. IncludingIR camera functionality makes it much more difficult for user 950 tocheat method 100 and/or system 200. For example, with IR camerafunctionality, method 100 and/or system 200 may be able to differentiatebetween artificial hands and living human hands, because living humanhands will often have a different surface temperature profile than thatof artificial hands.

With respect to user 950 facial recognition, camera's 215 digital-opticsmay recognize and separate employees from nonemployees to enable user950 identification. Camera's 215 digital-optics may recognize andseparate those users 950 who must adhere to proper hand washing fromthose who do not. In some embodiments, such recognition anddifferentiation, via camera 215, may be by facial feature recognition.Specific user 950 anatomical features, such as limb, hand, and digitmorphology (e.g. number and size) may also be used to augmentrecognition and/or identification of various users 950. Such user 950identification by facial feature recognition and/or by limb, hand anddigit morphology may make use of identification via user-transmitter 201obsolete or redundant. In some embodiments, redundancies may beexemplary to provide backup and as a means to confirm primaryidentification methods, such as facial feature recognition.

In some embodiments, the light projector and light receiver may also beused to aid in user 950 identification. In such embodiments, specialand/or unique patterns may be seen by reflected received IR laser light.Such special and/or unique patterns may be located on exterior surfacesof user-transmitter 20, uniforms, clothing, clothing accessories (e.g.belts), and/or user 950 skin, i.e. in the form of a tattoo. Such specialand/or unique patterns may be predominantly visible under IR light. Suchspecial and/or unique patterns may be unique to each specific user 950.Use of such special and/or unique patterns may be in addition to usingfacial feature recognition; limb, hand, and digit morphologyobservation; and/or identification of user 950 via user-transmitter 201.

In some embodiments, camera 215 may also comprise one or moremicrophones. Such microphones may also be located in washer 210,soap-dispenser 22, and/or hand-dryer 226. Such microphone may beconfigured to sense various sounds emanating withinhand-washing-compliance-area 280, such as a sound of running water, asound of soap being dispensed, and a sound of hands being dried. Use ofsuch microphones may increase the reliability of method 100 and/orsystem 200. In some embodiments, the one or more microphones may bearranged in an array of three or more microphones. Such an array ofmicrophones may aid in differentiating human sounds from non-humansounds and in a direction of sounds.

In some embodiments, camera 215 may comprise digital-optics (asdiscussed above), a camera-receiver, a camera-transmitter, acamera-power-source, a camera-memory, a camera-processor, and afeedback-means 290 for providing feedback-signal 180 and/orcompletion-feedback-signal 170.

In some embodiments, the digital-optics may comprise at least oneadjustable lens, at least one light projector, at least one lightreceiver (sensor), and the like. In some embodiments, at least oneadjustable lens may be configured for capturing images of objects withincamera's 215 field of view in red, green, and blue colors. In someembodiments, the digital-optics of camera 215 may also comprisethermal-imaging-optics, i.e. the IR camera. In some embodiments, thedigital-optics may comprise camera-software (i.e. camera-firmware). Thecamera-software may instruct the camera-processor how to process imagesreceived (i.e. observed and/or viewed) by the at least one adjustablelens. The camera-software may be non-transitorily stored within thecamera-memory. Together, the camera-software, the camera-processor, theat least one adjustable lens, and the camera-memory may permit camera215 to capture (view, observe), record, and recognize: (1) facialfeatures; (2) limb, hand, and digit morphology; (3) user 950 gestures,including hand-gestures; (4) stereoscopic events (motion) withinthree-dimensional (3D) space of camera's 215 field of view; (5) thermalimages, e.g. of warm or cold water; and the like.

In some embodiments, the camera-receiver may be configured to receivetransmissions from at least one server 231, temporary-controller 240,user-transmitter 201, entry-sensor 206, washer 210, soap-dispenser 221,hand-dryer 226, operator-computing-device 260, user-computing device270, and the like.

In some embodiments, the camera-transmitter may be configured towirelessly transmit a first-recording 111, a second-recording 112, athird-recording 113, a fourth-recording 114, and other recordings.First-recording 111, second-recording 112, third-recording 113 and anyother recording from camera 215 may be transmitted totemporary-controller 240 and/or to at least one server 231.

In some embodiments, the camera-power-source may be configured toprovide electrical power to: the digital-optics, the camera-receiver,the camera-transmitter, the camera-memory, the camera-processor, themeans for providing feedback-signal 180 and/orcompletion-feedback-signal 170.

In some embodiments, user 950 initiating each phase and/or step mayoccur by user 950 making appropriate hand-gestures at appropriatelocations (e.g. within hand-washing-compliance-area 280). Camera 215 mayfacilitate hand-gesture recognition by recognizing various defined andappropriate hand-gestures 115 (e.g. defined-hand-gestures 116,defined-pre-rinse-gestures 117, defined-soaping-gestures 118,defined-washing-gestures 119, and/or defined-drying-gestures 120).Camera 215 may also recognize whether the appropriate hand-gesture maybe occurring in an appropriate three-dimensional location.

For example, and without limiting the scope of the present invention,user 950 making defined-washing-gestures 119 below a faucet of washer210, may be recorded by camera 215 as both an appropriate hand-gestureand as occurring in an appropriate three dimensional location, such thatcamera 215 may cause a signal received by washer 210 for washer 210 toturn on the running of water. Likewise, when user 950 may remove handsfrom this appropriate three-dimensional location, camera 215 mayrecognize this and cause another signal received by washer 210 forwasher 210 to turn the water off.

For example, and without limiting the scope of the present invention,user 950 making defined-soaping-gestures 118 below soap-dispenser 221,may be recorded by camera 215 as both an appropriate hand-gesture and asoccurring in a recognized three dimensional location, such that camera215 may cause a signal received by soap-dispenser 221 to dispense soapfrom soap-dispenser 221. Likewise, when user 950 may remove hands fromthis appropriate three-dimensional location, camera 215 may recognizethis and cause another signal to be sent to soap-dispenser 221 such thatsoap may no longer be dispensed.

For example, and without limiting the scope of the present invention,user 950 making defined-drying-gestures 120 within a proximity ofhand-dryer 226, may be recorded by camera 215 as both an appropriatehand-gesture and as occurring in a recognized three dimensionallocation, such that user 950 may cause a signal to be sent to hand-dryer226 to either blow air or to provide a towel. Likewise, when user 950may remove hands from this appropriate three-dimensional location,camera 215 may recognize this and cause another signal to be sent tohand-dryer 226 such that air blowing ceases or no more towels may beprovided.

In some embodiments, user 950 may initiate a start to any particularphase by user 950 bringing user-transmitter 201 within sufficientproximity to entry-sensor 206, washer 210, soap-dispenser 221, and/orhand-dryer 226. In some embodiments, user 950 may initiate a start toany particular phase by user 950 by a combination of bringinguser-transmitter 201 within sufficient proximity to a particularcomponent and/or by performing appropriate hand-gestures 115 atappropriate locations.

In some embodiments, privacy concerns of a given user 950 may bemitigated by appropriate placement (e.g. mounting) of camera 215 withina given hand-washing-compliance-area 280, such that camera's 215 fieldof view may be appropriately restricted. Additionally, in someembodiments, privacy concerns of a given user 950 may be mitigated bycamera 215 being configured such that the field of view may berestricted to washer 210, soap-dispenser 221-, and/or hand-dryer 226.Additionally, in some embodiments, privacy concerns of a given user 950may be mitigated by recordings of camera 215 being restricted torecognized gestures, recognized gestures within an appropriatethree-dimensional space, and/or thermal images.

Additionally, in some exemplary embodiments, privacy concerns of a givenuser 950 may be mitigated by camera 215 not making any recordings. Insuch embodiments, camera 215 may only be capturing (viewing and/orobserving) hand and digit shapes and position in 3D information for useagainst an ideal set of shapes and positions of the pattern recognitionalgorithm. That is, in such embodiments, camera 215 may not be capturingimages of hands that may be readily deciphered by a human reviewingand/or observing an output from camera 215. In such embodiments, camera215 may be essentially acting as a sensor that may detect shapes andpositioning of hands and digits of user 950. Technically, in suchembodiments, camera 215 may not even be detecting hands and digits; butrather, camera 215 may be detecting objects within its 3D field of view,i.e. shapes and positions of objects may be detected by camera 215. Suchdetected shapes and positions of objects, in near real-time, may then berun through the pattern recognition algorithm. The pattern recognitionalgorithm may ask if those observed shapes and positions of observedobjects sufficiently matches the ideal set of shapes and positions. Theideal set of shapes and positions may correspond to ideal hand washingof an imaginary user 950 conducting ideal hand washing through thevarious hand washing phases. After comparison, the pattern recognitionalgorithm may cause logging of compliant log entry or a non-compliantlog entry. The pattern recognition algorithm may be a subcomponent ofthe software and may be non-transitorily stored within memory 333 of atleast one server 231, or corresponding controller-memory oftemporary-controller 240.

In some embodiments, receipt of second-wireless-transmission 106 bytemporary-controller 240 or at least one server 231, may result incamera 215 being activated to be ready to see and capturestart-hand-washing-command 110. See FIG. 1(c) In some embodiments,start-hand-washing-command 110 may be defined-hand-gestures 116 of user950 displayed before camera 215 (i.e. within camera 215 field of view).

For example, and without limiting the scope of the present invention,defined-hand-gestures 116 may be programmed into the software by use ofa programming-camera to capture a plurality of hand gestures that maythen be used to define defined-hand-gestures 1 16. For example, andwithout limiting the scope of the present invention,defined-hand-gestures 116 may be selected from one or more of the groupof hand gestures comprising: holding two palms facing camera 215,holding a single thumbs up gesture before camera 215, holding two thumbsup before camera 215, and the like.

In some embodiments, the programming-camera may be camera 215. That is,camera 215 may be used by an operator as a programming-camera to captureand record hand-gestures 1 15, that the operator may then classify as:defined-hand-gestures 116, defined-pre-rinse-gestures 117,defined-soaping-gestures 118, defined-washing-gestures 119, and/ordefined-drying-gestures 120.

In some embodiments, upon camera 215 seeing (i.e. capturing)defined-hand-gesture 1 16, camera 215 may record defined-hand-gesture116 (e.g. as a start-hand-washing-command 110) as fourth-recording 114.Camera 215 may transmit fourth-recording 114 to at least one server 231or to temporary-controller 240.

In some embodiments, start-hand-washing-command 110 may be received bytemporary-controller 240 or at least one server 231 via fourth-recording114 emanating from camera 215 or a non-recording-based communicationfrom camera 215. The software (executable by processor 332) maynon-transitorily reside in memory 333. Memory 333 may be incommunication with temporary-controller 240 (in which case the softwaremay be controller-software and memory 333 may be controller-memory) ormemory 333 may be in communication with at least one server 231. Thesoftware (or the controller-software) may either validate receivedstart-hand-washing-command 110 as compliant with accepteddefined-hand-gestures 116. Or the software (or the controller-software)may reject received start-hand-washing-command 110 as non-compliant withaccepted defined-hand-gestures 1 16. In some embodiments, validation ofreceived start-hand-washing-command 110 may result in turning on ofwasher 210 (e.g. with running water) for defined-first-duration 121. Insome embodiments, rejection of received start-hand-washing-command 110may result in generation of a first-error-message 126 by at least oneserver 231 or temporary-controller 240.

FIG. 1(d) may depict an exemplary embodiment a pre-rinse phase. User 950may wet hands beneath washer 210. Such user 950 conduct may be recordedby camera 215. In some embodiments, this conduct may be validated as anappropriate pre-rinse phase. In some embodiments, during the pre-rinsephase, washer 210 may run water for defined-first-duration 121. In someembodiments, during the pre-rinse phase, camera 215 may generatefirst-recording 111, of user 950 wetting hands under water running fromwasher 210. Such hand wetting may be during defined-first-duration 121.

In some embodiments, the turning on of washer 210 for the pre-rinsephase (wetting of the hands of user 950 before receiving soap) may beinitiated by: (1) user 950 placing hands in sufficient proximity of aproximity sensor of washer 210; (2) camera 215 viewing appropriatedefined-pre-rinse-gestures 117; (3) user 950 placing user-transmitter201 within sufficient distance of washer 210 to detect user-transmitter201 (and/or for washer 210 to receive first-wireless-transmission 101from user-transmitter 201); and/or (4) washer 210 receiving afirst-turn-on-signal 131.

In some embodiments, turning on of washer 210 for the pre-rinse phase(e.g. during defined-first-duration 121) may be accomplished by at leastone server 231 or temporary-controller 240 sending afirst-turn-on-signal 131 to washer 210. First-turn-on-signal 131 may bereceived by washer 210. In some embodiments, first-turn-on-signal 131may transverse and be communicated across a network from at least oneserver 231 to washer 210. The network may be a wide area network 801(WAN 801) such as the internet, and/or a local area network (LAN).

In some embodiments, defined-first-duration 121 may be a finite timeperiod. Defined-first-duration 121 may be predetermined by a first-valuein the software. And/or defined-first-duration 121 may be set by theoperator of method 100 and/or system 200 via an administrative area ofan operator-graphical-user-interface (operator-GUI).

In various embodiments, washer 210 may remain on (with running water)and automatically turn off at the end of defined-first-duration 121. Areason for turning on washer 210 for defined-first-duration 121 may beto allow user 950 to wet hands prior to soaping them, to facilitatebetter hand washing practices, i.e. to facilitate the pre-rinse phase.In some embodiments, the steps pertaining to such pre-rinsing of thehands prior to soaping and washing may be omitted from method 100 and/orsystem 200, e.g. in locations where conservation of water may be deemedimportant (or defined-first-duration 121 may have a shortened time).

For example, and without limiting the scope of the present invention, invarious embodiments defined-first-duration 121 may be 3 second, 4seconds, 5 seconds, 6 seconds, 7 seconds, 8 seconds, 9 seconds, 10seconds, 1 1 seconds, and the like. In other embodiments, otherdurations for defined-first-duration 121 are within the scope of thisinvention.

In some embodiments, the turning on and off of running water of washer210 may be controlled merely by a proximity sensor of washer 210. Whenan object, e.g. user 950, may be detected by the proximity sensor asignal may cause washer 210 to release water from its faucet. When theproximity sensor may not detect any object, then no water may be relatedfrom the faucet of washer 210.

In some embodiments, the operator may be the employer or an entitycontrolling and/or responsible for method 100 and/or system 200. Forexample, and without limiting the scope of the present invention, theoperator may be an agent, employee, and/or independent contractor forthe employer, such as health and safety compliance officer.

In some embodiments, method 100 may comprise the step of transmittingfirst-recording 111 (of user 950 wetting hands under water running fromwasher 210) from camera 215 to at least one server 231 ortemporary-controller 240. The software (or controller-software) mayvalidate first-recording 111 as compliant with accepteddefined-pre-rinse-gestures 1 17. Or the software (or thecontroller-software) may reject first-recording 111 as non-compliantwith accepted defined-pre-rinse-gestures 117. Validation offirst-recording 111 may result in activating soap-dispenser 221.Validation of first-recording 111 may result in the logging of apre-rinse phase validation notation with that hand-washing-cycle 108 ofthat user 950. Logging of the pre-rinse phase validation may be one logentry of the plurality of individual log entries which may comprise agiven hand-washing-cycle 108. Rejection of first-recording 111 mayresult in generation of a second-error-message 127, which may also belogged in that given hand-washing-cycle 108 of that user 950.

For example, and without limiting the scope of the present invention,defined-pre-rinse-gestures 117 may be programmed into the software byuse of programming-camera to capture a plurality of pre-rinse handgestures that may then be used to define defined-pre-rinse-gestures 117.

In some exemplary embodiments, validation of the pre-rinse phase mayoccur without any recordings from camera 215. In such embodiments,camera 215 may only be capturing (viewing and/or observing) hand anddigit shapes and position in 3D for use against the ideal set of shapesand positions of the pattern recognition algorithm. That is, in suchembodiments, camera 215 may not be capturing images of hands that may bereadily deciphered by a human reviewing and/or observing an output fromcamera 215. In such embodiments, camera 215 may be essentially acting asa sensor that may detect shapes and positioning of hands and digits ofuser 950. Technically, in such embodiments, camera 215 may not even bedetecting hands and digits; but rather, camera 215 may be detectingobjects within its 3D field of view, i.e. shapes and positions ofobjects may be detected by camera 215. Such detected shapes andpositions of objects, in near real-time, may then be run through thepattern recognition algorithm. The pattern recognition algorithm may askif those observed shapes and positions of observed objects sufficientlymatches the ideal set of shapes and positions for the pre-rinse phase.The ideal set of shapes and positions for the pre-rinse phase maycorrespond to ideal hand washing of the imaginary user 950 conductingideal pre-rinsing (wetting) of the hands. After the comparison, thepattern recognition algorithm may cause logging of a compliant log entryor a non-compliant log entry.

In some embodiments, washer 210 may comprise a means for dispensingwater 211 (e.g. the faucet), a washer-receiver, a washer-transmitter, awasher-power-source, the proximity sensor, and a means for providingfeedback-signal 180 and/or completion-feedback-signal 170. Thewasher-receiver may be configured to receive transmissions from at leastone server 231, temporary-controller 240, and user-transmitter 201. Thewasher-transmitter may be configured to wirelessly transmit athird-wireless-transmission 135. Wireless receiving and wirelesstransmission of washer 210 may be via WiFi, Bluetooth®, RFID, NFC, andthe like. The washer-power-source may be configured to provideelectrical power to the washer-receiver, to the washer-transmitter,and/or to the proximity sensor.

In some embodiments, method 100 may comprise the step of transmittingthird-wireless-transmission 135 from washer 210, sent to at least oneserver 231 or to temporary-controller 240. In some embodiments,third-wireless-transmission 135 may comprise information: noting thewasher is on with running water, noting the washer is off with norunning water, completion of the defined-first-duration 121, and/orcompletion of the defined-third-duration 123. And as noted, in someembodiments, the pre-rinse phase may be omitted or shortened.

FIG. 1(e) may depict an exemplary embodiment of the soaping (i.e.lathering) phase, wherein user 950 may receive soap that may bedispensed from soap-dispenser 221. Such user 950 conduct may be observed(or optionally recorded) by the camera 215. This conduct user 950 may bevalidated as an appropriate soaping phase.

In some embodiments, activation of soap-dispenser 221 may results insoap-dispenser 221 dispensing soap. Activation of soap-dispenser 221 maybe triggered by either receiving a dispense-signal from aphysical-proximity-sensor or by receiving first-wireless-transmission101 from user-transmitter 201 by a soap-dispenser-receiver, ifuser-transmitter 201 may be sufficiently close to soap-dispenser 221. Insome embodiments, sufficiently close for transmission offirst-wireless-transmission 101 from user-transmitter 201 tosoap-dispenser 221 may be within 10 centimeters (cm). Thephysical-proximity-sensor may be a component of soap-dispenser 221(similar in design and function as the proximity sensor of washer 210).In some embodiments the sufficient proximity between thephysical-proximity-sensor of soap-dispenser 221 and at least one hand ofuser 950 may be within 60 centimeters (cm) for activation ofsoap-dispenser 221. In some exemplary embodiments, that distance may be10 or less centimeters (cm). The soap-dispenser-receiver may be acomponent of soap-dispenser 221.

In some embodiments, activated soap-dispenser 221 may dispense at leastone metered amount of soap, upon each activation, i.e. a fixed ormetered amount. In some embodiments, each activation of soap-dispenser221 may result in a plurality of metered dispensed amounts of soap.

In various embodiments, soap-dispenser 221 may remain activated andautomatically turn off at the end of defined-second-duration 122. Insome embodiments, while activated, soap-dispenser 221 may continuallydispense soap or continually dispense fixed bursts of soap. In someembodiments, while off, soap-dispenser 221 may not dispense soap.

In some embodiments, defined-second-duration 122 may be a finite timeperiod. Defined-second-duration 122 may be predetermined by asecond-value in the software.

Defined-second-duration 122 may be a set by an operator of the methodvia an administrative area of operator-GUI.

For example, and without limiting the scope of the present invention, invarious embodiments defined-second-duration 122 may be 3 second, 4seconds, 5 seconds, 6 seconds, 7 seconds, 8 seconds, 9 seconds, 10seconds, 1 1 seconds, and the like. In other embodiments, otherdurations for defined-second-duration 122 are within the scope of thisinvention.

In some embodiments, during the soaping phase, camera 215 may view andoptionally record the soaping activities of user 950. Such soapingactivities may comprise both receiving one or more bursts of soapdispensed from soap-dispenser 221 and lathering of the received soapwithin the hands of user 950. Recording of such soaping activities bycamera 215 may be deemed second-recording 112. In some embodiments,method 100 may comprises the step of transmitting second-recording 112from camera 215 to at least one server 231 or to temporary-controller240.

In some embodiments, second-recording 112 may be received by at leastone server 231 or temporary-controller 250. The software (or thecontroller-software) may validate second-recording 112 as compliant withaccepted defined-soaping-gestures 118. Or the software (or thecontroller-software) may reject second-recording 112 as non-compliantwith accepted defined-soaping-gestures 118. Validation ofsecond-recording 112 may result in turning on washer 210 fordefined-third-duration 123. Validation of second-recording 112 mayresult in the logging of a soaping phase validation notation with thathand-washing-cycle 108 of that user 950. Logging of the soaping phasevalidation may be one log entry of the plurality of individual logentries which may comprise a given hand-washing-cycle 108. Rejection ofthe second-recording 112 may result in generation of athird-error-message 128, which may also be logged in that givenhand-washing-cycle 108 of that user 950.

For example, and without limiting the scope of the present invention,defined-soaping-gestures 118 may be programmed into the software by useof programming-camera to capture a plurality of soaping (lathering) handgestures that may then be used to define defined-soaping-gestures 118.

In some exemplary embodiments, validation of the soaping (i.e.lathering) phase may occur without any recordings from camera 215. Insuch embodiments, camera 215 may only be capturing (viewing and/orobserving) hand and digit shapes and position in 3D for use against theideal set of shapes and positions of the pattern recognition algorithm.That is, in such embodiments, camera 215 may not be capturing images ofhands that may be readily deciphered by a human reviewing and/orobserving an output from camera 215. In such embodiments, camera 215 maybe essentially acting as a sensor that may detect shapes and positioningof hands and digits of user 950. Technically, in such embodiments,camera 215 may not even be detecting hands and digits; but rather,camera 215 may be detecting objects within its 3D field of view, i.e.shapes and positions of objects may be detected by camera 215. Suchdetected shapes and positions of objects, in near real-time, may then berun through the pattern recognition algorithm. The pattern recognitionalgorithm may ask if those observed shapes and positions of observedobjects sufficiently matches the ideal set of shapes and positions forthe soaping phase. The ideal set of shapes and positions for the soapingphase may correspond to ideal hand washing of the imaginary user 950conducting ideal hand soaping. After the comparison, the patternrecognition algorithm may cause logging of a compliant log entry or anon-compliant log entry. Furthermore, such non-recording validation ofthe soaping phase, may be facilitated by the soap comprising aningredient which may visible from reflected IR light that may becaptured by the light receiver of camera 215.

In some embodiments, soap-dispenser 221 may comprise: a means fordispensing soap, a soap-dispenser-receiver, asoap-dispenser-transmitter, a soap-dispenser-power-source, optionally aphysical-proximity-sensor, and a feedback-means 290 for providingfeedback-signal 180 and/or completion-feedback-signal 170. The means fordispensing soap may comprise a refillable soap reservoir, at least onedispensing valve and valve control means. The fillable soap reservoirmay be in physical contact with the dispensing valve. The valve controlmeans may be physical contact with dispensing valve. The means fordispensing soap may be configured for liquid, gel, foam, powder, and thelike of various soaps and/or detergents. In some embodiments, the soap(and/or detergent) removably contained within soap-dispenser 221 maycomprise an ingredient (e.g. a dye) that may make the soap visible toreflected light off of the soap to the light sensor. Such an ingredientmay be visible from reflected IR light.

In some embodiments, the soap-dispenser-receiver may be configured toreceive transmissions from at least one server 231, temporary-controller240, and user-transmitter 201. The soap-dispenser-transmitter may beconfigured to wirelessly transmit a fourth-wireless-transmission 140.Wireless receiving and wireless transmission of soap-dispenser 221 maybe via WiFi, Bluetooth®, RFID, NFC, and the like. Thesoap-dispenser-power-source may be configured to provide electricalpower to the soap-dispenser-receiver, to the soap-dispenser-transmitter,and to the physical-proximity-sensor.

In some embodiments, method 100 may comprise the step of transmittingfourth-wireless-transmission 140 from soap-dispenser 221, and sent to atleast one server 231 or temporary-controller 240.

In some embodiments, fourth-wireless-transmission 140 may compriseinformation: noting soap-dispenser 221 is on and/or activated; notingsoap-dispenser 221 may be off and/or not-activated; and/or completion ofdefined-second-duration 122. Such information may also comprise date andtime information.

FIG. 1(f) may depict an exemplary embodiment the rinse (washing) phase.In the rinse phase user 950 may rinses hands of soap from beneath washer210. Such user 950 conduct may be recorded by camera 215. This user 950conduct may be validated as an appropriate rinse phase.

In some embodiments, the turning on of washer 210 with running water forthe rinse phase (rinsing of soap from the hands of user 950) may beinitiated by: (1) user 950 placing hands in sufficient proximity of theproximity sensor of washer 210; (2) camera 215 viewing appropriatedefined-washing-gestures 119; (3) user 950 placing user-transmitter 201within sufficient distance of washer 210 to detect user-transmitter 201(and/or for washer 210 to receive first-wireless-transmission 101 fromuser-transmitter 201); and/or (4) washer 210 receiving asecond-turn-on-signal 132.

In some embodiments, the turning on of washer 210 with running water fordefined-third-duration 123 may be accomplished by at least one server231 or temporary-server 240 sending second-turn-on-signal 132 to washer210. Second-turn-on-signal 132 may be received by washer 210. Turning onwasher 210 for defined-third-duration 123 may be accomplished by atleast one server 231 or temporary-controller 240 sendingsecond-turn-on-signal 132 to washer 210. Second-turn-on-signal 132 maytransverse and be communicated across the network from at least oneserver 231 to washer 240. The network may be a WAN 801 such as theinternet, and/or a LAN.

In some embodiments, defined-third-duration 123 may be a finite timeperiod. Defined-third-duration 123 may be predetermined by a third-valuein the software. Or defined-third-duration 123 may be set by theoperator of the method via an administrative area of an operator-GUI.

In various embodiments, washer 210 may remain on (with running water)and automatically turn off at the end of defined-third-duration 123. Areason for turning on washer 210 for defined-third-duration 123 may beto allow user 950 to wash and rinse hands of soap.

For example, and without limiting the scope of the present invention, invarious embodiments defined-third-duration 123 may be 9 second, 10seconds, 15 seconds, 20 seconds, 25 seconds, 30 seconds, 45 seconds, 60seconds, and the like. In other embodiments, other durations fordefined-third-duration 123 are within the scope of this invention.

In some embodiments, during the rinse phase, camera 215 may view andrecord the rinsing activities of user 950. Such rinsing activities maycomprise using water from washer 210 to rinse soap from the hands ofuser 950. Recording of such soaping activities by camera 215 may bedeemed third-recording 113. In some embodiments, method 100 maycomprises the step of transmitting third-recording 113 from camera 215to at least one server 231 or to temporary-controller 240.

In some embodiments, when washer 210 may be operating during the rinsephase (e.g. possibly during defined-third-duration 123) or during thepre-rinse phase, washer 210 may output (i.e. dispenses) warm water. Insuch embodiments, camera 215 may comprise thermal-imaging-optics, suchthat third-recording 113 may comprise thermal images of warm water incontact with the hands of user 950. The digital-optics of camera 215 maycomprise thermal-imaging-optics.

In some embodiments, third-recording 113 may be received by at least oneserver 231 or temporary-controller 250. The software (or thecontroller-software) may validate third-recording 113 as compliant withaccepted defined-washing-gestures 119. Or the software (or thecontroller-software) may reject third-recording 113 as non-compliantwith accepted defined-washing-gestures 119. Validation ofthird-recording 113 may result in the logging of an event. Validation ofthird-recording 113 may result in the logging of a rinse phasevalidation notation with that hand-washing-cycle 108 of that user 950.Logging of the rinse phase validation may be one log entry of theplurality of individual log entries which may comprise a givenhand-washing-cycle 108. Rejection of the third-recording 113 may resultin generation of a fourth-error-message 129, which may also be logged inthat given hand-washing-cycle 108 of that user 950.

For example, and without limiting the scope of the present invention,the defined-washing-gestures 119 may be programmed into the software byuse of programming-camera to capture a plurality of hand washing andrinsing gestures that may then be used to definedefined-washing-gestures 119. In embodiments, where the digital-opticsof camera 215 may comprise thermal-imaging-optics, thendefined-washing-gestures 119 may include a requirement for capturingthermal images of increased temperatures of the hands' surfaces. Note,in some embodiments the gestures comprising defined-washing-gestures 119may be substantially the same gestures which may comprisedefined-pre-rinse-gestures 117.

In embodiments, employing warm water, validating the rinse phase mayinclude checking for the presence of warm water on the hands of user950, by use of camera 215. Validation of the third-recording 113 ascompliant by the software (or controller-software) may involve thesoftware (or controller-software) detecting accepteddefined-washing-gestures 119 and thermal images of increasedtemperatures of the hands' surfaces. Rejection of third-recording 113 asnon-compliant by the software (or controller-software) may involve thesoftware (or controller-software) not detecting accepteddefined-washing-gestures 119, and/or not detecting increasedtemperatures of the hands' surfaces. Rejection of third-recording 113when a problem may be with not detecting increased temperatures of thehands' surfaces may result in generation of a fifth-error-message 130,which may also be logged in that given hand-washing-cycle 108 of thatuser 950.

In some embodiments, fifth-error-message 130 may denote that an increasein user's hands was not detected during the rinse phase (e.g. duringdefined-third-duration 123). Such a message may provide notice to theoperator of a potential maintenance issue with respect to washer 210supplying warm water and/or a problem in the thermal-imaging-optics.

In some exemplary embodiments, validation of the rinse (washing) phasemay occur without any recordings from camera 215. In such embodiments,camera 215 may only be capturing (viewing and/or observing) hand anddigit shapes and position in 3D for use against the ideal set of shapesand positions of the pattern recognition algorithm. That is, in suchembodiments, camera 215 may not be capturing images of hands that may bereadily deciphered by a human reviewing and/or observing an output fromcamera 215. In such embodiments, camera 215 may be essentially acting asa sensor that may detect shapes and positioning of hands and digits ofuser 950. Technically, in such embodiments, camera 215 may not even bedetecting hands and digits; but rather, camera 215 may be detectingobjects within its 3D field of view, i.e. shapes and positions ofobjects may be detected by camera 215. Such detected shapes andpositions of objects, in near real-time, may then be run through thepattern recognition algorithm. The pattern recognition algorithm may ask(compare) if those observed shapes and positions of observed objectssufficiently matches the ideal set of shapes and positions for the rinsephase. The ideal set of shapes and positions for the rinse phase maycorrespond to ideal hand rinsing of the imaginary user 950 conductingideal hand rinsing. After the comparison, the pattern recognitionalgorithm may cause logging of a compliant log entry or a non-compliantlog entry. Furthermore, such non-recording validation of the rinsephase, may be facilitated by the soap comprising the ingredient whichmay visible from reflected IR light that may be captured by the lightreceiver of camera 215, such that camera 215 may be used detect no orminimal amounts of the ingredient, which may then indicate that theingredient has been washed off.

In some embodiments, logging of the event within memory 333 incommunication with the at least one server 231 or temporary-controller240 may result in: (1) completion of the given hand-washing-cycle 108,see FIG. 1(g) discussion below; (2) a validate-entire-cycle-command, seeFIG. 1(g) discussion below; or (3) initiation of the drying phase, seeFIG. (f) discussion below. That is, the event may be a node, whereindepending upon a given embodiment, once method 100 may reach the event,method 100 may then progress via different subsequent steps. Forexample, and without limiting the scope of the present invention, inembodiments which may not include a drying phase, when method 100 mayreach the event, method 100 may validate the entire hand-washing-cycle108 and/or may terminate/complete that given hand-washing-cycle 108.

FIG. 1(g) may depict an exemplary embodiment of the drying phase. User950 may dry hands of water and/or of moisture from hand-dryer 226. Suchuser 950 conduct may be recorded by camera 215. This user 950 conductmay be validated as an appropriate drying phase. In some embodiments,hand-dryer 226 may comprise a feedback-means 290 for providingfeedback-signal 180 and/or completion-feedback-signal 170.

In some embodiments, the turning on of hand-dryer 226 for the dryingphase (drying of the hands of user 950) may be initiated by: (1) user950 placing hands in sufficient proximity of a proximity-sensor ofhand-dryer 226; (2) camera 215 viewing appropriatedefined-drying-gestures 120; (3) user 950 placing user-transmitter 201within sufficient distance of hand-dryer 226 to detect user-transmitter201 (and/or for hand-dryer 226 to receive first-wireless-transmission101 from user-transmitter 201); and/or (4) hand-dryer 226 receiving athird-turn-on-signal 145. In some embodiments, turning on of hand-dryer226 may result in activation of hand-dryer 226. In some embodiments, theactivation of hand-dryer 226 may result in hand-dryer 226 providing ameans-to-dry-hands. In some embodiments the sufficient proximity betweenthe proximity-sensor of hand-dryer 226 and at least one hand of user 950may be within 60 centimeters (cm) for activation of hand-dryer 226. Insome exemplary embodiments, that distance may be 10 or less centimeters(cm). In some embodiments, after user 950 may have completed drying ofthe hands, user 950 may need to leave hand-washing-compliance area 280within a set time; otherwise, method 100 and/or system 200 may promptuser 950 to repeat a hand washing cycle. The set time may be set by theoperator in some embodiments. For example, and without limiting thescope of the present invention, the set time may be one minute.

In some embodiments, the means-to-dry-hands may comprise a device whichmay blow air over the hands to dry them (see e.g., FIG. 1(g)) and/or adevice which may dispense one or more towels or a device which may makeavailable one or more towels to the user.

In some embodiments, when hand-dryer 226 may be activated, hand-dryer226 may operate for a defined-fifth-duration 125. In some embodiments,defined-fifth-duration 125 may be a finite time period.Defined-fifth-duration 125 may be predetermined by a fifth-value in thesoftware. Defined-fifth-duration 125 may be set by an operator of themethod via an administrative area of operator-GUI. In variousembodiments, hand-dryer 226 may remain on and active, and automaticallyturn off at the end of defined-fifth-duration 125.

For example, and without limiting the scope of the present invention, invarious embodiments defined-fifth-duration 125 may be 5 seconds, 10seconds, 15 seconds, 20 seconds, 25 seconds, 30 seconds, 35 seconds, andthe like. In other embodiments, other durations fordefined-fifth-duration 125 are within the scope of this invention.

In some embodiments, hand-dryer 226 may comprise the means-to-dry-hands,a hand-dryer-receiver, a hand-dryer-transmitter, ahand-dryer-power-source, and the proximity-sensor. Thehand-dryer-receiver may be configured to receive transmissions from atleast one server 231, temporary-controller 240, and user-transmitter201. The hand-dryer-transmitter may be configured to wirelessly transmita fifth-wireless-transmission 150. Wireless receiving and wirelesstransmission of hand-dryer 226 may be via WiFi, Bluetooth®, RFID, NFC,and the like. The hand-dryer-power-source is configured to provideelectrical power to the hand-dryer-receiver, to thehand-dryer-transmitter, and to the proximity-sensor of hand-dryer 226.

In some embodiments, method 100 may comprise the step of transmittingfifth-wireless-transmission 150 from hand-dryer 226 and sent to at leastone server 231 or to temporary-controller 240. In some embodiments,fifth-wireless-transmission 150 may comprise information: notinghand-dryer 226 is on and activated, noting hand-dryer 226 is off, and/orcompletion of defined-fifth-duration 125.

In some embodiments, during the drying phase, camera 215 may view andrecord the drying activities of user 950. Such drying activities maycomprise user 950 drying hands with an air blower or with providedtowels, depending upon which embodiment of the means-to-dry-hands may beemployed. Recording of such drying activities by camera 215 may bedeemed fifth-recording 155. In some embodiments, method 100 maycomprises the step of transmitting fifth-recording 155 from camera 215to at least one server 231 or to temporary-controller 240.

In some embodiments, fifth-recording 155 may be received by at least oneserver 231 or temporary-controller 250. The software (or thecontroller-software) may validate fifth-recording 155 as compliant withaccepted defined-drying-gestures 120. Or the software (or thecontroller-software) may reject fifth-recording 155 as non-compliantwith accepted defined-drying-gestures 120. Validation of fifth-recording155 may result in the logging of a drying phase validation notation withthat hand-washing-cycle 108 of that user 950. Logging of the soapingphase validation may be one log entry of the plurality of individual logentries which may comprise a given hand-washing-cycle 108. Rejection ofthe fifth-recording 155 may result in generation of asixth-error-message 160, which may also be logged in that givenhand-washing-cycle 108 of that user 950.

For example, and without limiting the scope of the present invention,defined-drying-gestures 120 may be programmed into the software by useof programming-camera to capture a plurality of drying hand gesturesthat may then be used to define defined-drying-gestures 120.

In some exemplary embodiments, validation of the drying phase may occurwithout any recordings from camera 215. In such embodiments, camera 215may only be capturing (viewing and/or observing) hand and digit shapesand position in 3D for use against the ideal set of shapes and positionsof the pattern recognition algorithm. That is, in such embodiments,camera 215 may not be capturing images of hands that may be readilydeciphered by a human reviewing and/or observing an output from camera215. In such embodiments, camera 215 may be essentially acting as asensor that may detect shapes and positioning of hands and digits ofuser 950. Technically, in such embodiments, camera 215 may not even bedetecting hands and digits; but rather, camera 215 may be detectingobjects within its 3D field of view, i.e. shapes and positions ofobjects may be detected by camera 215. Such detected shapes andpositions of objects, in near real-time, may then be run through thepattern recognition algorithm. The pattern recognition algorithm may ask(compare) if those observed shapes and positions of observed objectssufficiently matches the ideal set of shapes and positions for thedrying phase. The ideal set of shapes and positions for the drying phasemay correspond to ideal hand drying of the imaginary user 950 conductingideal hand drying. After the comparison, the pattern recognitionalgorithm may cause logging of a compliant log entry or a non-compliantlog entry.

FIG. 1(h) may depict an exemplary embodiment of user 950 receiving acompletion-feedback-signal 170 which may notify user 950 that the givenhand-washing-cycle 108 may have terminated and/or that the givenhand-washing-cycle 108 may have terminated successfully, with user 950in proper hand washing compliance.

In some embodiments, logging of the event may trigger transmission ofthe hand-washing-cycle-completion-signal 165 to one or more of varioustarget devices because the hand-washing-cycle 108 may have completed.

In some embodiments, transmission of thehand-washing-cycle-completion-signal 165 may emanate from at least oneserver 231 or temporary-controller 240. A target device of thehand-washing-cycle-completion-signal may be one or more of the groupcomprising: user-transmitter 201, entry-sensor 206, washer 210,soap-dispenser 221, camera 215, hand-dryer 226, wireless-router 250,temporary-controller 240, operator-computing-device 260, user-computingdevice 270, and the like. The target device may be configured to receivethe hand-washing-cycle-completion-signal 165. Upon receipt of thehand-washing-cycle-completion-signal 165, the target device(s) may emita completion-feedback-signal 170. In some embodiments, thecompletion-feedback-signal 170 may be visual and/or audible, such thatuser 950 may notice completion-feedback-signal 170.

For example, and without limiting the scope of the present invention,entry-sensor 206, washer 210, soap-dispenser 221, camera 215, hand-dryer226 (if present) may all substantially simultaneously emit a beep and/orflash of a green LED (light emitting diode) to communicate an end tothat given hand-washing-cycle 108. In some embodiments, at least oneserver 231 or temporary-controller 240 may cause a notification signalto be sent and viewable by user-computing-device 270 noting the end tothat given hand-washing-cycle 108. In some embodiments, at least oneserver 231 or temporary-controller 240 may cause a notification signalto be sent and viewable by operator-computing-device 260 noting the endto that given hand-washing-cycle 108.

In some embodiments, logging of the event may comprise inclusion of thefollowing information: date of completion of the hand-washing-cycle 108,time of completion of the hand-washing-cycle 108, and informationcontained within the first-wireless-transmission 101 (e.g.unique-user-ID 103, user's name, and/or user's job title).

In some embodiments, upon at least one server 231 ortemporary-controller 240 receiving the event, when the event correspondsto an end of a given hand-washing-cycle 108, at least one server 231 ortemporary-controller 240 may cause transmission ofhand-washing-cycle-completion-signal 165 to the various target devices.One or more of the target devices may then emitcompletion-feedback-signal 170.

In some embodiments, method 100 may comprise the step of receiving avalidate-entire-cycle-command 175. Validate-entire-cycle-command 175 maybe embedded within the event. Receipt of validate-entire-cycle-command175 may cause the software (or controller-software) to check each logentry for a given hand-washing-cycle 108 for any error message entriesand/or other log entries that demonstrate a problem in the givenhand-washing-cycle 108. If the software (or controller-software) findsno error message entries and/or no log entries demonstrating a problemin the given hand-washing-cycle 108, then the software (orcontroller-software) may cause a final-overall-validation-message 176 tobe logged into that hand-washing-cycle 108. Or if the software (orcontroller-software) finds at least one error message entry or at leastone log entry demonstrating a problem in the given hand-washing-cycle108, then the software (or controller-software) may cause anoperator-review-notification 177 message to be transmitted to theoperator (e.g. in an email and/or text message).Operator-review-notification 177 may request review by the operator ofthe given hand-washing-cycle 108.

In some embodiments, the software (or controller-software) finding apotential problem with a given hand-washing-cycle 108 may also result ina notification sent to user 950 and viewable by user-computing-device270, so user 950 may be timely notified of the potential problem, asuser 950 may have a fresh memory of any potential problems.

In some embodiments, method 100 may comprise the step of transmitting afeedback-signal 180 to user 950 from feedback-means 290. In someembodiments, feedback-signal 180 may be of a nature of general feedbackfrom any phase and any target device; whereas completion-feedback-signal170, may be for feedback at the end of a given hand-washing-cycle 108.The transmitted feedback-signal 180 may be selected from emitting fromone or more feedback-means 290 in physical contact with one or more ofthe group comprising: user-transmitter 201, entry-sensor 206, camera215, washer 210, soap-dispenser 221, hand-dryer 226, thetemporary-controller 240, user-computing-device 270, and the like.

For example, and without limiting the scope of the present invention,the entry-sensor 206 may flash a green LED and/or a beep to indicate touser 950 that entry-sensor 206 has received first-wireless-transmission101. Or for example, and without limiting the scope of the presentinvention, entry-sensor 206 may flash a red LED and/or a buzzer sound toindicate to user 950 that entry-sensor 206 has not correctly receivedfirst-wireless-transmission 101 or that entry-sensor 206 may beexperiencing an error.

For example, and without limiting the scope of the present invention,camera 215 may flash a green LED and/or a beep to indicate to user 950that any of fourth-recording 114, first-recording 111, second-recording112, third-recording 113, and/or fifth-recording 155 were successfullyvalidated or successfully transmitted to at least one server 231 or totemporary-controller 240. Or for example, and without limiting the scopeof the present invention, the camera 215 may flash a red LED and/or emita buzzer sound to indicate to user 950 that any of fourth-recording 114,first-recording 111, second-recording 112, third-recording 113, and/orfifth-recording 155 were not successfully validated or not successfullytransmitted.

For example, and without limiting the scope of the present invention,washer 210 may flash a green LED and/or a beep to indicate to user 950that water may be running from the faucet of washer 210.

For example, and without limiting the scope of the present invention,the soap-dispenser 221 may flash a green LED and/or a beep to indicatethat soap-dispenser 221 may be dispensing soap. Or for example, andwithout limiting the scope of the present invention, the soap-dispenser221 may flash a red LED and/or emit a buzzer sound to indicate thatsoap-dispenser 221 may be low our out of soap in its soap reservoir.

In some embodiments, feedback-signal 180 may be in a form of an audiblesignal and/or a visual signal from feedback-means 290. The audiblesignal may be one or more beeps, one or more buzzer sounds, or a soundfrom a sound-file provided by the operator and received by at least oneserver 231. The visual signal may be lighting from one or more lights,lighting from one or more lights of at least two different colors, orflashing at least one light on and off. The light may be from a lightsource such as a LED.

In some embodiments, feedback-signal 180 may be transmitted for adefined-fourth-duration 1 24. In some embodiments,defined-fourth-duration 124 may be a finite time period.Defined-fourth-duration 124 may be predetermined by a fourth-value inthe software (controller-software). Or defined-fourth-duration 124 maybe set by the operator via an administrative area of an operator-GUI. Invarious embodiments, signal-feedback 180 may remain transmitting andautomatically turn off at the end of defined-fourth-duration 124.

For example, and without limiting the scope of the present invention, invarious embodiments defined-fourth-duration 124 may be 3 second, 4seconds, 5 seconds, 6 seconds, 7 seconds, 8 seconds, 9 seconds, 10seconds, 11 seconds, and the like. In other embodiments, other durationsfor defined-fourth-duration 124 are within the scope of this invention.

FIG. 2 may depict an exemplary embodiment of a system 200 for user handwashing compliance. Some components of such system 200 may be depicted,with some potential communication relationships of these systemcomponents. Some of these system 200 components have been introducedabove when discussing method 100 in discussing the FIG. 1 series offigures.

With respect to FIG. 2, in some embodiments, system 200 may compriseuser-transmitter 201, entry-sensor 206, washer 210, camera 215,soap-dispenser 221, hand-dryer 226, temporary-controller 240,wireless-router 250, wide area network (WAN) 801, at least one server231, operator-computing-device 260, user-computing-device 270, and thelike. In some embodiments, system 200 may also include user 950, theoperator, or both user 950 and the operator.

In some embodiments, user-transmitter 201 may be integral to thewrist-band 202 or the identification-card 203. When user-transmitter 201may be used in method 100 for hand washing compliance of user 950,user-transmitter 201 may generally be associated (maintained) with user950. In some embodiments, user-transmitter 201 may comprise theWireless-transmitter 404. Wireless-transmitter 404 may wirelesslytransmit first-wireless-transmission 101. As noted in method 100,first-wireless-transmission 101 may be sent to and target various targetdevices, including entry-sensor 206, at least one server 231,temporary-controller 240, entry-sensor 206, washer 210, camera 215,hand-dryer 226, wireless-router 250, operator-computing-device 260,user-computing-device 270, and the like.

In some embodiments, wireless-transmitter 404 may be configured forwireless transmission using a wireless communication protocol selectedfrom one or more of the group comprising: Bluetooth®, WiFi, RFID, NFC,and the like.

In some embodiments, user-transmitter 201 may comprise wireless-receiver405. In some embodiments, wireless-receiver 405 may be configured forreceiving wireless transmissions using one or more wirelesscommunication protocols selected from the group comprising: Bluetooth®,WiFi, RFID, NFC, and the like. In some embodiments, wireless-receiver405 may be configured for receiving wireless transmissions from one ormore of at least one server 231, temporary-controller 240, entry-sensor206, washer 210, camera 215, hand-dryer 226, wireless-router 250,operator-computing-device 260, user-computing-device 270, and the like.

In some embodiments, wireless-transmitter 404 and/or wireless-receiver405 may be a wireless antenna of user-transmitter 201.

In some embodiments, the information comprisingfirst-wireless-transmission 101 may be stored in user-memory 406. Thatis, user-transmitter 201 may comprise user-memory 406. User-memory 406may be in physical contact with wireless-transmitter 404 and/orwireless-receiver 405. In some embodiments, user-memory 406 may beread-only. In some embodiments, user-memory 406 may be rewritable.

In some embodiments, user-transmitter 201 may compriseoptional-processor 409, user-memory 406, antenna 404/405,optional-function-chip 407, feedback-means 290, battery 410, and thelike. See FIG. 4. In embodiments, which contain optional-function-chip407, optional-processor 409 may also be present to controluser-transmitter 201, optional-function-chip 407 may comprise suchfunctions as the heartbeat sensor, vibration detector, and/oraccelerometer. Battery 410 may be rechargeable.

In some embodiments, entry-sensor 206 may be located at least one accesspoint (e.g. entrance 281) to hand-washing-compliance-area 280.Entry-sensor 206 may comprise the sensor-receiver, thesensor-transmitter, the sensor-power-source, and the means for providingfeedback-signal 180 and/or completion-feedback-signal 170. Thesensor-receiver may be configured to receive first-wireless-transmission101. In some embodiments, the sensor-receiver may be configured toreceive wireless transmission from at least one server 231 (ortemporary-controller 240). The sensor-transmitter may be configured towirelessly transmit second-wireless-transmission 106. Thesensor-power-source may be configured to provide electrical power to thesensor-receiver, to the sensor-transmitter the means for providingfeedback-signal 180 and/or completion-feedback-signal 170.

In some embodiments, washer 210 may comprise the means for dispensingwater 211 (e.g. the faucet), the washer-receiver, thewasher-transmitter, the washer-power-source, optionally the proximitysensor, and the means for providing feedback-signal 180 and/orcompletion-feedback-signal 170. The washer-receiver may be configured toreceive transmissions from at least one server 231 (ortemporary-controller 240) and/or the user-transmitter 201. Thewasher-transmitter may be configured to wirelessly transmitthird-wireless-transmission 135. The washer-power-source may beconfigured to provide electrical power to the washer-receiver, to thewasher-transmitter, the proximity sensor, and to the means for providingfeedback-signal 180 and/or completion-feedback-signal 170.

In general, see camera 215 discussion above under the FIG. 1(c) and FIG.5 discussion above. In some embodiments, camera 215 may comprisedigital-optics, a camera-receiver, a camera-transmitter, acamera-power-source, a camera-memory, a camera-processor, and a meansfor providing feedback-signal 180 and/or completion-feedback-signal 170.

In some embodiments, the digital-optics may comprise at least oneadjustable lens. In some embodiments, the digital-optics of camera 215may also comprise thermal-imaging-optics. In some embodiments, thedigital-optics may comprise camera-software (i.e. camera-firmware). Thecamera-software may instruct the camera-processor how to process imagesreceived by the at least one adjustable lens. The cam era-software maybe non-transitorily stored within the camera-memory. Together, thecamera-software, the camera-processor, the at least one adjustable lens,and the camera-memory may permit camera 215 to capture (view), record,and recognize: (1) user 950 gestures, including hand-gestures; (2)stereoscopic events of where in three-dimensional space user 950 gesturemay have occurred; and/or (3) thermal images, e.g. of warm or coldwater.

In some embodiments, the camera-receiver may be configured to receivetransmissions from at least one server 231, temporary-controller 240,user-transmitter 201, entry-sensor 206, washer 210, soap-dispenser 221,hand-dryer 226, operator-computing-device 260, user-computing device270, and the like.

In some embodiments, the camera-transmitter may be configured towirelessly transmit first-recording 111, second-recording 112,third-recording 113, fourth-recording 114, and other recordings.First-recording 111, second-recording 112, third-recording 113 and anyother recording from camera 215 may be transmitted totemporary-controller 240 and/or to at least one server 231.

For example, and without limiting the scope of the present invention, insome embodiments, the camera-transmitter may be configured to wirelesslytransmit fourth-recording 114. Upon camera 215 seeing (viewing)defined-hand-gesture 116, camera 215 may record defined-hand-gesture 116as fourth-recording 114. Camera 215 may transmit fourth-recording 114 toat least one server 231 or to temporary-controller 240.

In some embodiments, the camera-power-source may be configured toprovide electrical power to: the digital-optics, the camera-receiver,the camera-transmitter, the camera-memory, the camera-processor, themeans for providing feedback-signal 180 and/orcompletion-feedback-signal 170.

In some embodiments, soap-dispenser 221 may comprise: a means fordispensing soap, a soap-dispenser-receiver, asoap-dispenser-transmitter, a soap-dispenser-power-source, optionally aphysical-proximity-sensor, and a means for providing feedback-signal 180and/or completion-feedback-signal 170. The means for dispensing soap maycomprise a refillable soap reservoir, at least one dispensing valve andvalve control means. The fillable soap reservoir may be in physicalcontact with the dispensing valve. The valve control means may bephysical contact with dispensing valve. The means for dispensing soapmay be configured for liquid, gel, foam, powder, and the like of varioussoaps and/or detergents. The soap-dispenser-receiver may be configuredto receive transmissions from at least one server 231,temporary-controller 240, and user-transmitter 201. Thesoap-dispenser-transmitter may be configured to wirelessly transmit afourth-wireless-transmission 140. Wireless receiving and wirelesstransmission of soap-dispenser 221 may be via WiFi, Bluetooth®, RFID,NFC, and the like. The soap-dispenser-power-source may be configured toprovide electrical power to the soap-dispenser-receiver, to thesoap-dispenser-transmitter, and to the physical-proximity-sensor.

Note, at least one server 231 and temporary-controller 240 are discussedunder the FIG. 3 discussion.

Continuing discussing FIG. 2, in terms of system componentfunctionality, in some embodiments as noted above in method 100, receiptof first-wireless-transmission 101 by the sensor-entry 206 may initiatetransmission of second-wireless-transmission 106 by sensor-entry 206. Insome embodiments, second-wireless-transmission 106 may compriseinformation logging initiation of a given hand-washing-cycle 108 inuser-hand-washing-log 107. Hand-washing-cycle 108 may comprise at leastone log entry pertaining to a given user's 950 interactions with system200 components. User-hand-washing-log 107 may be the database. Thedatabase may be maintained in memory 333.

In some embodiments, third-wireless-transmission 135 may compriseinformation: noting the washer 210 may be on with running water, notingwasher 210 may be off with no running water, noting completion ofdefined-first-duration 121, and/or noting completion of adefined-third-duration 123. In some embodiments,fourth-wireless-transmission 140 may comprise information: notingsoap-dispenser 221 may be on and activated, noting soap-dispenser 221may be off, and/or completion of defined-second-duration 122.

In some embodiments, first-recording 111 may be of user 950 wettinghands under water running from washer 210 during the pre-rinse phase(possibly during defined-first-duration 121). In some embodiments,second-recording 112 may be of user 950 receiving soap fromsoap-dispenser 221. In some embodiments, third-recording 113 may be ofuser 950 washing and subsequently rinsing the soap from the hands ofuser 950 during the rinse phase (possibly during defined-third-duration123).

Depending upon if the embodiment concludes with the rinse phase ordrying phase, initiation of the completion phase may involve at leastone server 231 (or temporary-controller 240) transmittinghand-washing-cycle-completion-signal 165 to one or more of the targetdevices. The target devices may include: user-transmitter 201,entry-sensor 206, washer 210, camera 215, soap-dispenser 221, hand-dryer226, and the like. Receipt of hand-washing-cycle-completion-signal 165by one or more of the target devices may results in acompletion-feedback-signal 170 being broadcast to user 950 from one ormore of the target devices.

In some embodiments, hand-dryer 226 may comprise the means-to-dry-hands,the hand-dryer-receiver, the hand-dryer-transmitter, theproximity-sensor, the hand-dryer-power-source, and a means for providingfeedback-signal 180 and/or completion-feedback-signal 170. In someembodiments, the means-to-dry-hands may comprise a device which may blowair over the hands to dry them and/or a device which may dispense one ormore towels or a device which may make available one or more towels tothe user. The hand-dryer-receiver may be configured to receivetransmissions from at least one server 231 (temporary-controller 240)and/or user-transmitter 201. The hand-dryer-transmitter may beconfigured to wirelessly transmit fifth-wireless-transmission 150.Wireless receiving and wireless transmission of hand-dryer 226 may bevia WiFi, Bluetooth®, RFID, NFC, and the like.Fifth-wireless-transmission 150 may comprise information: notinghand-dryer 226 may be on and activated, noting hand-dryer 226 may beoff, and/or noting completion of defined-fifth-duration 125. Thehand-dryer-power-source may be configured to provide electrical power tothe means-to-dry-hands, the hand-dryer-receiver, thehand-dryer-transmitter, the proximity-sensor, and the means forproviding feedback-signal 180 and/or completion-feedback-signal 170.

In some embodiments, wireless-router 250 may be in wirelesscommunication with one or more of the group comprising: user-transmitter201, entry-sensor 206, washer 210, soap-dispenser 221, camera 215,hand-dryer 226, WAN 801, a LAN, at least one server 231,temporary-controller 240, operator-computing-device 260,user-computing-device 270, and the like. Wireless-router 250 may beconfigured for facilitating receiving and transmission of communicationsbetween user-transmitter 201, entry-sensor 206, washer 210,soap-dispenser 221, camera 215, hand-dryer 226, at least one server 231,temporary-controller 240, operator-computing-device 260,user-computing-device 270, and the like. In some embodiments,wireless-router 250 may comprise a modem. The modem may be configuredfor communicating with WAN 801 (e.g. the internet) and/or the LAN.

In some embodiments, WAN 801 is merely a network that may separate atleast one server 231 from various target devices and/orhand-washing-compliance area 280, wherein various target devices may belocated. In some exemplary embodiments, temporary-controller 240 may belocated onsite, but outside of hand-washing-compliance area 280. In someembodiments, at least one server 231 may be located offsite, i.e.remotely from hand-washing-compliance area 280 and fromtemporary-controller 240, in which case various communications, betweenat least one server 231 and onsite target devices, may transverse WAN801. In some embodiments, at least one server 231 may be located onsitebut outside of hand-washing-compliance area 280, in which case variouscommunications, between at least one server 231 and onsite targetdevices, may transverse the LAN.

In some embodiments, operator-computing-device 260 may be selected fromthe group comprising: a laptop, a smartphone, a tablet computing device,a desktop computer, a server, including at least one server 231. In someembodiments, operator-computing-device 260 may be at least one server23, e.g. as a laptop or desktop computer. The operator may useoperator-computing-device 260 to interact with one or more of at leastone server 231, temporary-controller 240, user-transmitter 201,entry-sensor 206, washer 210, camera 215, soap-dispenser 221, hand-dryer226, wireless-router 250, user-computing-device 270, and the like.

In some embodiments, user-computing-device 270 may be selected from thegroup comprising: a laptop, a smartphone, a tablet computing device, adesktop computer, a server (but not at least one server 231), and thelike. User 950 may use user-computing-device 270 to interact with one ormore of at least one server 231, temporary-controller 240,user-transmitter 201, entry-sensor 206, washer 210, camera 215,soap-dispenser 221, hand-dryer 226, wireless-router 250,operator-computing-device 260, and the like.

In some embodiments, user 950 interacting with system 200 and/or method100 via user-computing-device 270 may be for purposes of viewingreports, notifications, and log entries. In some embodiments, user 950interacting with system 200 and/or method 100 via user-computing-device270 may be for purposes of submitting disputes and/or noting a possibleneed for maintenance.

FIG. 3 may depict exemplary subcomponents of at least one server 231 ina block diagram format. This block diagram may also depict how thesubcomponents of temporary-controller 240 may be structured.

In some embodiments, at least one server 231 may comprise: a processor332, memory 333, network-adapter 334, and a server-power-source 335.Memory 333 may non-transitorily store executable software anduser-hand-washing-logs 107 (as one or more databases). Processor 332 maycontrol outputs directed to network-adapter 334 for communication to oneor more target devices per instructions contained within the executablesoftware for handling various inputs received via network-adapter 334.Network-adapter 334 may facilitate communications across WAN 801 (e.g.the internet) and/or the LAN with target devices. In some embodiments,the target devices may be selected from one or more of the groupcomprising, user-transmitter 201, entry-sensor 206, washer 210, camera215, soap-dispenser 221, hand-dryer 226, temporary-controller 240,wireless-router 250, operator-computing-device 260,user-computing-device 270, and the like. The server-power-sourceprovides electrical power to processor 332, memory 333, andnetwork-adapter 334.

In some embodiments, temporary-controller 240 may temporarily replace atleast one server 231, act as a substitute for communications to and fromat least one server 231, act a temporary data cache, act as a backupdevice which may control the various exemplary steps of method 100 forwhen communication with at least server 231 may be temporarily impairedor otherwise unavailable. Communicating with at least one server may notbe possible if there may be an interruption in internet connectivity orproblems in bandwidth. Temporary-controller may be a standalone device.In some embodiments, temporary-controller may be located within oroutside of hand-washing-compliance-area 280. In some embodiments,temporary-controller 240 may be incorporated within (e.g. integral with)entry-sensor 206, washer 210, soap-dispenser 22, camera 215, hand-dryer226, wireless router 250, or operator-computing-device 260.

In some embodiments, temporary-controller 240 may be in wirelesscommunication with one or more of the group comprising: user-transmitter201, entry-sensor 206, washer 210, soap-dispenser 221, camera 215, atleast one server 231 via an intermediary network (such as WAN 801 and/orthe LAN), hand-dryer 226, operator-computing-device 260,user-computing-device 270, wireless-router 250, and the like.

In some embodiments, temporary-controller 240 may comprise acontroller-processor, a controller-memory, a controller-network-adapter,and a controller-power-source. The controller-memory maynon-transitorily store executable controller-software,hand-washing-cycle 108 entries, and user-hand-washing-logs 107. Thecontroller-processor may control outputs directed to thecontroller-network-adapter for communication to one or more targetdevices per instructions contained within the executablecontroller-software for handling various inputs received via thecontroller-network-adapter. The controller-network-adapter mayfacilitate communications across WAN 801 (e.g. the internet) and/or theLAN with the target devices. In some embodiments, the target devices maybe selected from one or more of the group comprising: user-transmitter201, entry-sensor 206, washer 210, soap-dispenser 221, camera 215, atleast one server 231 via an intermediary network (such as WAN 801 and/orthe LAN), hand-dryer 226, operator-computing-device 260,user-computing-device 270, wireless-router 250, and the like. Thecontroller-power-source may provide electrical power to thecontroller-processor, the controller-memory, andcontroller-network-adapter.

In some embodiments, the executable software (software) may compriseserver-software and controller-software. The server-software may benon-transitorily stored within memory 333. The server-software maycontrol how processor 332 processes inputs received from one or moretarget devices to generate outputs back to the one or more targetdevices. The controller-software may be non-transitorily stored withinthe controller-memory of temporary-controller 240. Thecontroller-software may control how the controller-processor processesinputs received from one or more target devices to generate outputs backto the one or more target devices.

In some embodiments, the server-software may comprise anoperator-graphical-user-interface (operator-GUI). The operator-GUI maybe configured to permit the operator to interact with server-softwareand/or the controller-software. In some embodiments, the operator-GUImay be accessed by the operator via operator-computing-device 260.Operator-GUI may be accessed on operator-computing-device 260 via a webbrowser application and/or as a downloaded application (e.g. as a mobileapp). In the case of a mobile app embodiment, a version of theserver-software and/or the controller software may non-transitorilyreside in memory associated with operator-computing-device 260.

In some embodiments, the server-software and/or the controller-softwaremay comprise a user-graphical-user-interface (user-GUI). The user-GUImay be configured to permit the user to interact with theserver-software and/or the controller-software. In some embodiments, theuser-GUI may be accessed by user via user-computing-device 270. User-GUImay be accessed on user-computing-device via a web browser applicationand/or as a downloaded application (e.g. as a mobile app). In the caseof a mobile app embodiment, a version of the server-software and/or thecontroller software may non-transitorily reside in memory associatedwith user-computing-device 270.

FIG. 4 may depict an exemplary embodiment of subcomponents ofuser-transmitter 20. In some embodiments, user-transmitter 201 maycomprise may comprise: wrist-band 202 or identification-card 203 (seee.g., FIG. 4(a)), wireless-transmitter 404, wireless-receiver 405, anduser-memory 406. Wrist-band 202 or identification-card 203 may be thestructure that wireless-transmitter 404, wireless-receiver 405, anduser-memory 406 may be housed within. In some embodiments,wireless-transmitter 404 and/or wireless-receiver 405 may be a wirelessantenna of user-transmitter 20. In active embodiments, user-transmitter201 may also comprise a power source such as a battery, which may berechargeable in some embodiments. In passive embodiments,user-transmitter 201 may receive power from other target devices whichare sufficiently close to user-transmitter 20.

FIG. 5 may depict an exemplary embodiment of camera 215. In someembodiments, camera 215 may be a stereoscopic camera capable of seeing(observing and/or viewing) in 3D (three dimensions). That is, camera 215may be able to calculate depth and volume of various objects withincamera 215 field of view. Camera 215 may comprise a light projector(emitter) and light receiving sensor (receiver). In some embodiments,the light may be laser light. In further embodiments, the laser lightmay be infrared (IR) laser light. In such embodiments, the lightprojector may be projecting IR laser light into a field of view ofcamera 215. Such projected laser light may reflect off of variousobjects within the field of view and may then be received by the lightreceiver (sensor). The light receiver may comprise a monochrome CMOS(complimentary metal-oxide semiconductor) sensor for detecting thereflected IR laser light. By analyzing the received reflected IR laserlight and a time of flight for how long it may take the reflected IRlaser light to be received by the light receiver (sensor), the softwaremay generate an accurate and precise 3D map of the field of view. Suchtime of flight 3D depth tracking and mapping technology may be tuned foroperation at distances of 1.5 meters or less from the objects beingmeasured to camera 215. Continual projections of such IR laser light andcontinual receipt of reflected IR laser light may enable camera 215 tosee depth and near real-time changes (i.e. movement) in the field ofview. Additionally, use of IR light may allow such 3D mapping and motiontracking to operate with or without a presence of visible light.

In some embodiments, camera 215 may comprise digital-optics (i.e.lenses) which may recognize facial features, appendage (limb) anatomy,and hand and finger (digit) anatomy. For example, and without limitingthe scope of the present invention, camera's 215 digital-optics mayrecognize numerosity of shapes and/or length (size) of shapes. Forexample, camera's 215 digital-optics may recognize how many limbs and/orhands and/or digits may be within the field of view. For example,camera's 215 digital-optics may be able to determine a length of an armwithin the field of view. In some embodiments, the digital-optics maycomprise digital lenses, such as RBG (red blue green) video capability,as well as the light projector and light receiver (sensor). Camera's 215digital-optics may recognize if user 950 may be missing fingers, thumbs,hands, or limbs. Camera's 215 digital-optics may recognize thumbs fromfingers and fingers from thumbs, and where each finger and thumb shouldbe in relation to each hand.

With respect to user 950 hands, Camera's 215 digital-optics mayrecognize not only the number of hands (one, two, or none), but may alsobe able to differentiate a palm side (palmar) of the hands from anopposing dorsal side of the hands.

With respect to user 950 hands, camera's 215 digital-optics mayrecognize if the palms of two hands are touching and rubbing againsteach other. Camera's 215 digital-optics may recognize where the handsmay be located in 3D space. Camera's 215 digital-optics may be able todifferentiate between palms in physical contact and rubbing; from twodorsal sides of the hands in physical contact and rubbing.

In an exemplary embodiment, camera 215 is not comparing digital 2D (twodimensional) images of hands for an output decision. Rather, method 100and/or system 200 may be watching for, in 3D, whether palms may becoming together, to make a decision on proper or improper hand washing.Method 100, via the software, may be comparing viewed shapes and 3Dpositions of such viewed shapes against a 3D model of an ideal set ofshapes and positions of the pattern recognition algorithm.

In exemplary embodiments, camera 215 may also comprise an infrared (IR)camera or other equivalent thermal sensor. In such embodiments,observing heat emissions from running water and/or from the surface ofhands may aid in determining if proper hand washing has occurred or maybe occurring. With IR camera functionality proper water temperature usemay be verified.

In some embodiments, observed temperature ranges may be assigneddifferent colors for display purposes. For example, and without limitingthe scope of the present invention, hot may be assigned to red, warmassigned may be assigned to yellow, and cold may be assigned to blue.With IR camera functionality, verifying actual use of water duringpre-rinse and/or during washing may be made easier and more reliablebecause hot water (but not dangerously hot) over warm hands may providea useful color contrast; and/or cold water over warm hands may alsoprovide a useful color contrast as picked up by the IR camera.

Including IR camera functionality makes it much more difficult for user950 to cheat method 100 and/or system 200. For example, with IR camerafunctionality, method 100 and/or system 200 may be able to differentiatebetween artificial hands and living humans hands, because living humanhands will often have a different surface temperature profile than thatof artificial hands.

With respect to user 950 facial recognition, camera's 215 digital-opticsmay recognize and separate employees from nonemployees to enable user950 identification. Camera's 215 digital-optics may recognize andseparate those users 950 who must adhere to proper hand washing fromthose who do not. In some embodiments, such recognition anddifferentiation, via camera 215, may be by facial feature recognition.Specific user 950 anatomical features, such as limb, hand, and digitmorphology (e.g. number and size) may also be used to augmentrecognition and/or identification of various users 950. Such user 950identification by facial feature recognition and/or by limb, hand anddigit morphology may make use of identification via user-transmitter 201obsolete or redundant. In some embodiments, redundancies may beexemplary to provide backup and as a means to confirm primaryidentification methods, such as facial feature recognition.

In some embodiments, the light projector and light receiver may also beused to aid in user 950 identification. In such embodiments, specialand/or unique patterns may be seen by reflected received IR laser light.Such special and/or unique patterns may be located on exterior surfacesof user-transmitter 201, uniforms, clothing, clothing accessories (e.g.belts), and/or user 950 skin, i.e. in the form of a tattoo. Such specialand/or unique patterns may be predominantly visible under IR light. Suchspecial and/or unique patterns may be unique to each specific user 950.Use of such special and/or unique patterns may be in addition to usingfacial feature recognition; limb, hand, and digit morphologyobservation; and/or identification of user 950 via user-transmitter 201.

In some embodiments, camera 215 may also comprise one or moremicrophones. Such microphones may also be located in washer 210,soap-dispenser 221, and/or hand-dryer 226. Such microphone may beconfigured to sense various sounds emanating withinhand-washing-compliance-area 280, such as a sound of running water, asound of soap being dispensed, and a sound of hands being dried. Use ofsuch microphones may increase the reliability of method 100 and/orsystem 200. In some embodiments, the one or more microphones may bearranged in an array of three or more microphones. Such an array ofmicrophones may aid in differentiating human sounds from non-humansounds and in a direction of sounds.

In some embodiments, camera 215 may comprise digital-optics (asdiscussed above), a camera-receiver, a camera-transmitter, acamera-power-source, a camera-memory, a camera-processor, and afeedback-means 290 for providing feedback-signal 180 and/orcompletion-feedback-signal 170.

In some embodiments, the digital-optics may comprise at least oneadjustable lens, at least one light projector, at least one lightreceiver (sensor), and the like. In some embodiments, at least oneadjustable lens may be configured for capturing images of objects withincamera's 215 field of view in red, green, and blue colors. In someembodiments, the digital-optics of camera 215 may also comprisethermal-imaging-optics, i.e. the IR camera. In some embodiments, thedigital-optics may comprise camera-software (i.e. camera-firmware). Thecamera-software may instruct the camera-processor how to process imagesreceived (i.e. observed and/or viewed) by the at least one adjustablelens. The camera-software may be non-transitorily stored within thecamera-memory. Together, the camera-software, the camera-processor, theat least one adjustable lens, and the camera-memory may permit camera215 to capture (view, observe), record, and recognize: (1) facialfeatures; (2) limb, hand, and digit morphology; (3) user 950 gestures,including hand-gestures; (4) stereoscopic events (motion) withinthree-dimensional (3D) space of camera's 215 field of view; (5) thermalimages, e.g. of warm or cold water; and the like.

In some embodiments, the camera-receiver may be configured to receivetransmissions from at least one server 231, temporary-controller 240,user-transmitter 201, entry-sensor 206, washer 210, soap-dispenser 221,hand-dryer 226, operator-computing-device 260, user-computing device270, and the like.

In some embodiments, the camera-transmitter may be configured towirelessly transmit a first-recording 111, a second-recording 112, athird-recording 113, a fourth-recording 114, and other recordings.First-recording 111, second-recording 112, third-recording 113 and anyother recording from camera 215 may be transmitted totemporary-controller 240 and/or to at least one server 231.

In some embodiments, the camera-power-source may be configured toprovide electrical power to: the digital-optics, the camera-receiver,the camera-transmitter, the camera-memory, the camera-processor, themeans for providing feedback-signal 180 and/orcompletion-feedback-signal 170.

In some embodiments, user 950 initiating each phase and/or step mayoccur by user 950 making appropriate hand-gestures at appropriatelocations (e.g. within hand-washing-compliance-area 280). Camera 215 mayfacilitate hand-gesture recognition by recognizing various defined andappropriate hand-gestures 115 (e.g. defined-hand-gestures 116,defined-pre-rinse-gestures 117, defined-soaping-gestures 118,defined-washing-gestures 119, and/or defined-drying-gestures 120).Camera 215 may also recognize whether the appropriate hand-gesture maybe occurring in an appropriate three-dimensional location.

For example, and without limiting the scope of the present invention,user 950 making defined-washing-gestures 119 below a faucet of washer210, may be recorded by camera 215 as both an appropriate hand-gestureand as occurring in an appropriate three dimensional location, such thatcamera 215 may cause a signal received by washer 210 for washer 210 toturn on the running of water. Likewise, when user 950 may remove handsfrom this appropriate three-dimensional location, camera 215 mayrecognize this and cause another signal received by washer 210 forwasher 210 to turn the water off.

For example, and without limiting the scope of the present invention,user 950 making defined-soaping-gestures 118 below soap-dispenser 221,may be recorded by camera 215 as both an appropriate hand-gesture and asoccurring in a recognized three dimensional location, such that camera215 may cause a signal received by soap-dispenser 221 to dispense soapfrom soap-dispenser 221. Likewise, when user 950 may remove hands fromthis appropriate three-dimensional location, camera 215 may recognizethis and cause another signal to be sent to soap-dispenser 221 such thatsoap may no longer be dispensed.

For example, and without limiting the scope of the present invention,user 950 making defined-drying-gestures 120 within a proximity ofhand-dryer 226, may be recorded by camera 215 as both an appropriatehand-gesture and as occurring in a recognized three dimensionallocation, such that user 950 may cause a signal to be sent to hand-dryer226 to either blow air or to provide a towel. Likewise, when user 950may remove hands from this appropriate three-dimensional location,camera 215 may recognize this and cause another signal to be sent tohand-dryer 226 such that air blowing ceases or no more towels may beprovided.

In some embodiments, user 950 may initiate a start to any particularphase by user 950 bringing user-transmitter 201 within sufficientproximity to entry-sensor 206, washer 210, soap-dispenser 221, and/orhand-dryer 226. In some embodiments, user 950 may initiate a start toany particular phase by user 950 by a combination of bringinguser-transmitter 201 within sufficient proximity to a particularcomponent and/or by performing appropriate hand-gestures 115 atappropriate locations.

In some embodiments, privacy concerns of a given user 950 may bemitigated by appropriate placement (e.g. mounting) of camera 215 withina given hand-washing-compliance-area 280, such that camera's 215 fieldof view may be appropriately restricted. Additionally, in someembodiments, privacy concerns of a given user 950 may be mitigated bycamera 215 being configured such that the field of view may berestricted to washer 210, soap-dispenser 221, and/or hand-dryer 226.Additionally, in some embodiments, privacy concerns of a given user 950may be mitigated by recordings of camera 215 being restricted torecognized gestures, recognized gestures within an appropriatethree-dimensional space, and/or thermal images.

Additionally, in some exemplary embodiments, privacy concerns of a givenuser 950 may be mitigated by camera 215 not making any recordings. Insuch embodiments, camera 215 may only be capturing (viewing and/orobserving) hand and digit shapes and position in 3D information for useagainst an ideal set of shapes and positions of the pattern recognitionalgorithm. That is, in such embodiments, camera 215 may not be capturingimages of hands that may be readily deciphered by a human reviewingand/or observing an output from camera 215. In such embodiments, camera215 may be essentially acting as a sensor that may detect shapes andpositioning of hands and digits of user 950. Technically, in suchembodiments, camera 215 may not even be detecting hands and digits; butrather, camera 215 may be detecting objects within its 3D field of view,i.e. shapes and positions of objects may be detected by camera 215. Suchdetected shapes and positions of objects, in near real-time, may then berun through the pattern recognition algorithm. The pattern recognitionalgorithm may ask if those observed shapes and positions of observedobjects sufficiently matches the ideal set of shapes and positions. Theideal set of shapes and positions may correspond to ideal hand washingof an imaginary user 950 conducting ideal hand washing through thevarious hand washing phases. After comparison, the pattern recognitionalgorithm may cause logging of compliant log entry or a non-compliantlog entry. The pattern recognition algorithm may be a subcomponent ofthe software and may be non-transitorily stored within memory 333 of atleast one server 23, or corresponding controller-memory oftemporary-controller 240.

A method and system for user hand washing compliance has been described.The foregoing description of the various exemplary embodiments of theinvention has been presented for the purposes of illustration anddisclosure. It is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit theinvention to the precise form disclosed. Many modifications andvariations are possible in light of the above teaching without departingfrom the spirit of the invention.

While the invention has been described in connection with what ispresently considered to be the most practical and preferred embodiments,it is to be understood that the invention is not to be limited to thedisclosed embodiments, but on the contrary, is intended to cover variousmodifications and equivalent arrangements included within the spirit andscope of the appended claims.

What is claimed is:
 1. A method for user hand washing compliance,comprising the steps of: receiving, from the entry-sensor, asecond-wireless-transmission by a temporary-controller or by at leastone server, the second-wireless-transmission including an indicator thata specific user has entered the hand-washing-compliance-area based on afirst-wireless-transmission from a user-transmitter as a user enters ahand-washing-compliance-area ; receiving a start-hand-washing-commandfrom the user by the temporary controller or by the at least one server;receiving, by the temporary controller or by the at least one server, afirst-recording by a camera of the user wetting hands under waterrunning from the washer during the defined-first-duration; receiving, bythe temporary controller or by the at least one server asecond-recording by the camera of the user receiving soap from thesoap-dispenser; receiving, by the temporary controller or by the atleast one server, a third-recording by the camera of the user washingand receiving, by the temporary controller or by the at least oneserver, transmission of a hand-washing-cycle-completion-signal resultingin a completion-feedback-signal being sent back to the user; andlogging, by the temporary controller or by the at least one server, atleast one log entry pertaining to a given user's interactions with themethod.
 2. The method for user hand washing compliance according toclaim 1, wherein the first-wireless-transmission comprises transmittinga unique-user-ID associated with a particular user.
 3. The method foruser hand washing compliance according to claim 1, wherein theuser-transmitter is housed within and/or is in integral communicationwith a wrist band, an identification card, a keychain, or other similardevice.
 4. The method for user hand washing compliance according toclaim 1, wherein the user-transmitter is configured for wirelesstransmission using a wireless communication protocol selected from oneor more of the group consisting of Bluetooth®, WiFi, radio frequency ID,and near field communication.
 5. The method for user hand washingcompliance according to claim 1, wherein thehand-washing-compliance-area is an area wherein the area bounds a threedimensional space, wherein within the three dimensional space aredefined by the entry-sensor, the washer, the camera, and thesoap-dispenser.
 6. The method for user hand washing compliance accordingto claim 1, wherein the sensor-transmitter is configured for wirelesstransmission using a wireless communication protocol selected from oneor more of the group consisting of Bluetooth®, WiFi, radio frequency ID,and near field communication.
 7. The method for user hand washingcompliance according to claim 1, wherein thesecond-wireless-transmission comprises the information logginginitiation of the hand-washing-cycle, this information comprising: (1)information contained within the first-wireless-transmission; (2) a dateof receiving the first-wireless-transmission; and (3) a time ofreceiving the first-wireless-transmission.
 8. The method for user handwashing compliance according to claim 1, wherein the method furthercomprises the step of transmitting the first-recording from the camerato the at least one server or the temporary-controller.
 9. The methodfor user hand washing compliance according to claim 1, wherein themethod further comprises the step of transmitting the second-recordingfrom the camera to the at least one server or to thetemporary-controller.
 10. The method for user hand washing complianceaccording to claim 1, wherein the washer remains on for rinsing of thehands of soap for a defined-third-duration; wherein thedefined-third-duration is a finite time period, wherein thedefined-third-duration is predetermined by a third-value in the softwareor wherein the defined-third-duration is set by an operator of themethod via an administrative area of anoperator-graphical-user-interface.
 11. The method for user hand washingcompliance according to claim 1, wherein when the washer is operatingduring the defined-third-duration, the washer outputs warm water. 12.The method for user hand washing compliance according to claim 1,wherein the method further comprises the step of transmitting afeedback-signal to the user; wherein the transmitted feedback-signal isselected from emitting from one or more of the group consisting of: theuser-transmitter, the entry-sensor, the camera, the washer, thesoap-dispenser, a hand-dryer, the temporary-controller, and auser-computing-device.
 13. The method for user hand washing complianceaccording to claim 1, wherein the method further comprises the step oftransmitting a third-wireless-transmission from the washer and sent tothe at least one server or the temporary-controller.
 14. The method foruser hand washing compliance according to claim 1, wherein the methodfurther comprises the step of transmitting afourth-wireless-transmission from the soap-dispenser and sent to the atleast one server or the temporary-controller.
 15. The method for userhand washing compliance according to claim 1, wherein the method furthercomprises the step of transmitting a fifth-wireless-transmission from ahand-dryer and sent to the at least one server or thetemporary-controller.
 16. The method for user hand washing complianceaccording to claim 1, wherein the camera comprises a digital-optics, acamera-receiver, a camera-transmitter, and a camera-power-source;wherein the camera-receiver is configured to receive transmissions fromthe at least one server, the temporary-controller, and theuser-transmitter; wherein the camera-transmitter is configured towirelessly transmit a fourth-recording, the first-recording, the-secondrecording, the third-recording, and a sixth-wireless-transmission; andwherein the camera-power-source is configured to provide electricalpower to the digital-optics, the camera-receiver and to thecamera-transmitter.
 17. The method for user hand washing complianceaccording to claim 1, wherein the temporary-controller is in wirelesscommunication with one or more of the group consisting of: theuser-transmitter, the entry-sensor, the washer, the soap-dispenser, thecamera, the at least one server via an intermediary network, ahand-dryer, an operator-computing-device, a user-computing-device, and awireless-router.
 18. A method for user hand washing compliance,comprising the steps of: (1) receiving a request from a user to enter ahand-washing-compliancearea, wherein the request is received by anentry-sensor; (2) optionally releasing water from a washer forpre-rinsing hands of the user; (3) releasing soap from a soap-dispenserfor soaping the hands of the user; (4) releasing water from the washerto rinse the soaped hands of the user; and (5) optionally providing ameans-to-dry-hands from a hand-dryer for drying the hands of the user;wherein the user initiates each step with a user-transmitter and/or withdefined-hand-gestures before a gesture-recognition-camera; wherein uponthe user initiating each step, the gesture-recognition-camera recordseach step; and wherein at least one server receives said recordings andvalidates each step.
 19. The method for user hand washing complianceaccording to claim 18, wherein the user initiating each step occurs bythe user bringing the user-transmitter within sufficient proximity tothe entry-sensor, the washer, the soap-dispenser, and/or the hand-dryer;or the user initiating each step occurs by the user making appropriatehand-gestures at appropriate locations.
 20. A method for user handwashing compliance, comprising the steps of: receiving at anentry-sensor, a first-wireless-transmission from a user-transmitter, theuser-transmitter being integral to a wrist-band or anidentification-card, the user-transmitter being maintained with a user,enters a hand-washing-compliance-area; receiving, from the entry-sensor,a second-wireless-transmission by a temporary-controller or by at leastone server, the second-wireless-transmission including an indicator thata specific user has entered the hand-washing-compliance-area; receivinga start-hand-washing-command from the user by the temporary controlleror by the at least one server; receiving, by the temporary controller orby the at least one server, a first-recording by a camera of the userwetting hands under water running from the washer during thedefined-first-duration; receiving, by the temporary controller or by theat least one server a second-recording by the camera of the userreceiving soap from the soap-dispenser; receiving, by the temporarycontroller or by the at least one server, a third-recording by thecamera of the user washing and receiving, by the temporary controller orby the at least one server, transmission of ahand-washing-cycle-completion-signal resulting in acompletion-feedback-signal being sent back to the user; and logging, bythe temporary controller or by the at least one server, at least one logentry pertaining to a given user's interactions with the method.